The Likelihood of Hitting an Animal While Driving
Animal collisions are more common than many drivers realize—and in Pennsylvania, the odds are especially high. A recent report from State Farm estimated that there were more than 1.8 million animal-related auto insurance claims filed in the U.S. from July 1, 2023, to June 30, 2024.
While West Virginia ranked highest for the likelihood of hitting an animal, Pennsylvania had the highest number of claims overall - more than 150,000. That translates to a 1 in 61 chance of a collision with wildlife. In comparison, Delaware drivers face a 1 in 135 chance and New Jersey drivers have a 1 in 224 chance of an animal collision.
When and Where Animal Collisions Happen
Deer are the most common animals involved in collisions, especially during the fall mating season. Other animals frequently hit include rodents, dogs, raccoons, and coyotes. The months of November, October, and December see the highest number of these incidents.
Animal collisions are most likely to occur on paved rural roads with low traffic and poor lighting. Risk increases significantly at dawn and dusk, when animals are more active. Speeding, distracted driving, or other risky behaviors can increase the likelihood of a collision by 23%.
Safety Tips to Avoid a Collision
The report recommended the following to reduce your risk:
- Stay alert and slow down, especially in rural or wooded areas.
- Watch for deer crossing signs.
- Avoid distractions, such as cell phones.
- Use your horn or flash your lights to scare animals off the road.
- If you see an animal, tap your brakes to alert drivers behind you.
- Do not swerve—maintaining control of your vehicle is safest.
What to Do If You Do Hit an Animal
- Call 911 if the animal is large and remains in the roadway.
- Assess whether your vehicle is safe to drive.
- Take photos of the scene, if safe to do so.
- File a claim with your insurance provider.
While some crashes are just that – unavoidable accidents, when a traffic accident happened due to negligent, dangerous or illegal actions of another driver, talk to a top Philadelphia car accident law firm to weigh your legal options. Please contact us to set a time to meet with no obligation and no consultation fee.