State Farm data shows which states see the most animal-involved collisions

Forty-one percent of all animal-involved collision claims filed with State Farm occurred in October through December of last year, with 650,000 incidents recorded during those months, State Farm data shows. 

Overall, there were 1.7 million auto insurance claims in the U.S. from animal collisions between July 1, 2024, and June 30, 2025. This is a slight decline from the 1.8 million State Farm reported in last year’s study. 

The newest data show that drivers face odds of 1 in 139 of being involved in an animal collision, which is an improvement compared to last year’s 1 in 128 national average. 

West Virginia (1 in 40) and Montana (1 in 53) held their positions as the top states for animal collisions. Wisconsin (1 in 58) rose from the fifth top state last year to the third top state this year. Michigan (1 in 61) dropped from third place last year to fourth this year. Pennsylvania (1 in 62) also dropped from the fourth spot to the fifth spot on the list. 

Other states in the top ten include South Dakota, Iowa, Mississippi, Wyoming, and Virginia. 

According to State Farm’s press release, West Virginia has held the top spot for more than a decade. While West Virginia led in collisions, Pennsylvania reported the highest number of estimated industry claims with 147,000. The state was followed by Michigan (about 125,000), North Carolina (88,000), Texas (86,000), and Ohio (80,500). 

States with the lowest odds of an animal collision include Nevada (1 in 966), Hawaii (1 in 907), the District of Columbia (1 in 794), Alaska (1 in 661), and Arizona (1 in 577). 

“All states experienced a slight decrease in claims compared to the previous year,” the report says. 

Deer also continue to lead as the No. 1 animal struck by vehicles, followed by unknown animals, rodents, dogs, and raccoons. The release notes that rodents are not only involved in collisions but are also included in claims data as an animal-related loss for damage they cause to vehicles, such as chewing wires. 

State Farm after-crash tips

• • Move your vehicle to a safe place, such as the side of the road, and turn on your hazard lights.
  • Call the police and let them know if an animal is blocking traffic and/or could be creating a threat to other drivers.
  • Document by taking photos of the road, the surrounding area, and the damage.
  • Stay away from the animal, which could be frightened and/or wounded, causing it to use its legs and hooves to harm you. 
  • Don’t assume your vehicle is safe to drive. It could have leaking fluid, loose parts, tire damage, broken lights, and other hazards. 
  • Contact your insurance company to file an insurance claim. Comprehensive coverage typically covers repairs for collisions with animals after your deductible.

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