According to the latest research, Georgia drivers rank #9 in the nation for the number of animal collision claims. State Farm, the state’s largest auto insurer, reports more than 70,000 estimated animal collision claims across the Peach state filed from July 1, 2024, to June 30, 2025. State Farm researched the data and compared all 50 states and the District of Columbia. Deer makes up the largest majority of damage to vehicles from animals followed by unknown animals, rodents, dogs, raccoons, and cattle. “The information is a good reminder to slow down, especially at dusk, as most animal-related crashes in the U.S. occur from October to December,” says State Farm spokesman Roszell Gadson.

State Farm research indicates the state of Pennsylvania was #1 with the highest estimated number of animal collision crashes from July 1, 2024, to June 30, 2025. Your highest odds of hitting a deer or another animal is in the state of West Virginia. 

Claim costs for animal collisions can vary wildly, ranging from a bumper scratch to a total loss, depending, among other things, on the size of the animal that you strike.

 The months drivers are most likely to collide with an animal in the U.S. are:

1. November

2. October

3. December

Animal Collision Safety Tips

• Slow down.  Reduce your vehicle's speed and maintain a constant lookout for animals. Travel at a speed that will allow you to stop in time if an animal comes into the beam cast by your headlights.

• Use extra caution and slow-down in known animal crossing zones.

• Dusk to dawn are high-risk times; use high beams when appropriate.

• Scan the road and avoid swerving when you see an animal. Brake firmly when you notice an animal in or near your path but stay in your lane. Many serious crashes occur when drivers swerve to avoid a deer and hit another vehicle or lose control of their cars.

• Always wear your seatbelt.

After-crash tips

• Move your vehicle to a safe place: Pull to the side of the road and turn on your hazard lights.

• Stay away from the animal: A frightened, wounded animal could use its legs and hooves to harm you. Do not attempt to move an animal.

• Call police: If an animal is blocking traffic and could be create a threat for other drivers.

• Document: Take photographs of the road, your surroundings and damage.

• Don’t assume your vehicle is safe to drive: Look for leaking fluid, loose parts, tire damage, broken lights and other hazard.

• Contact your insurance company: Quickly file your insurance claim.

Please reach out if you need further information or for interview needs.