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If you are hitting the road anytime soon, especially in certain parts of the U.S., it is good to be aware of which states see the most animal-related accidents. From deer darting into the road to smaller critters scurrying across, knowing where these incidents are frequent can help you stay safer while driving. Here are 15 states with the highest number of roadway animal accidents.
West Virginia
Unsurprisingly, the top spot with the most roadway animal accidents goes to West Virginia. With its luscious landscapes and dense forests, the state is full of wildlife, deer in particular. When you are passing through those winding mountain roads, be cautious, especially during dawn and dusk when animals are most active.
Montana
Here in Montana, the chances of encountering wildlife on the road is pretty high. Apart from deer, you might also come across elk or moose, which can cause significant damage if hit. Our advice? Always scan the road ahead and keep your headlights on high beams when there is no oncoming traffic at night.
Pennsylvania
Driving through Pennsylvania, especially in the more rural areas, you’re in another hotspot for deer collisions. With both large forested areas and agricultural fields, animals often cross roads unexpectedly. Locals here often use deer whistles on their cars, but the effectiveness is debatable. A better bet is to stay alert and adhere to posted speed limits.
South Dakota
In South Dakota, it is not just about deer, though they are a common sight. You also have to be cautious of smaller animals like raccoons and skunks, particularly near Badlands National Park and the Black Hills. These areas are rich in biodiversity, making animal encounters on roads quite frequent.
Iowa
Iowa has a significant number of animal-related accidents mainly due to its vast agricultural lands where animals tend to wander onto the roads. In areas like this, it is important to be extra vigilant at dawn and dusk when visibility is lower and animals are more active.
Michigan
Michigan! Known for its beautiful lakes and forests, it is also a hotspot for vehicle-animal collisions. The state has a large deer population, and in autumn, especially during the hunting season, deer become more active and, unfortunately, more likely to leap into the road. If you are cruising through Michigan’s scenic routes, stay alert and drive slowly.
Wisconsin
Wisconsin is right up there with Michigan when it comes to deer encounters on the road. The dairy state’s mix of dense forests and agricultural land creates a perfect setting for deer and other wildlife to roam. If you are driving in Wisconsin, especially during the early and late parts of the day, keep an eye out for movement on the road edges.
Minnesota
Yes, Minnesota is also on our list! With its vast wilderness areas and heavy forest coverage. Drivers here need to be vigilant for deer, especially during migration and mating seasons. The state’s wildlife management efforts are robust, but still, the best prevention is cautious and attentive driving.
Virginia
Heading over to the East Coast, Virginia’s varied landscape of mountains and forests makes it another state where animal collisions are frequent. Deer are the usual suspects, but do not be surprised if you spot a bear in more mountainous areas! Driving in Virginia demands constant awareness, so keep those eyes scanning the road and its surroundings.
North Carolina
North Carolina’s rich forests and rural roads make it a tricky drive when it comes to dodging animals. With a large population of deer and even some black bears, staying alert is important. It is particularly important during the early morning and late evening when animals are most likely to be crossing roadways.
Colorado
When you think of Colorado, you might picture snowy peaks and skiing, but it is also a place where wildlife encounters on the road are pretty common. This state is home to not just deer but also elk and moose, which can pose serious risks to drivers. The key here is to slow down in wildlife crossing areas and always stay attentive.
Alaska
Alaska, with its vast wilderness, is almost synonymous with wildlife. Driving here can be breathtakingly beautiful but also requires you to be on high alert for moose, which are not only numerous but also massive and potentially very dangerous if hit. Given the long stretches of remote roads, be particularly cautious during those endless twilight hours in the far north.
Wyoming
Wyoming, a land of wide-open spaces with a minimal population, sees a lot of animal traffic crossing its roadways. From deer to antelope, the state’s roads can often feel more like a wildlife park. The best advice when driving here is to expect the unexpected and keep an eye out for wildlife signs that are there to warn you of high animal crossing areas.
Idaho
Idaho’s rugged landscape is another hotbed for wildlife-vehicle collisions. This state has a lot of deer, elk, and even some wolves. When you are driving through Idaho, especially near wooded and mountainous areas, it is wise to assume that an animal could cross your path at any time. Early morning and late evening drives require extra caution.
Oregon
Last on our list, but certainly not least, Oregon’s lush forests and high animal populations make it a frequent site for road accidents involving wildlife. Deer are the most common culprits, but in some areas, larger animals like elk and even cougars can appear without warning. Driving through Oregon, particularly on less-traveled roads, demands constant watchfulness.
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