Deer Strike Season: Stay Alert and Stay Safe!

As fall approaches, deer activity increases across much of the country, creating an added hazard for drivers—especially during the early morning and evening hours. For professional drivers spending long hours on the road, staying alert and knowing how to react can make a major difference.

According to the latest State Farm animal-collision data, more than 1.6 million animal-vehicle collision claims were estimated nationwide between July 1, 2025 and June 30, 2026. Deer remain the animal most frequently involved in these crashes, and the risk increases during the fall when deer are more active.

Be Aware. Be Alert.

Deer can appear with very little warning, so keep these safety tips in mind whenever you are behind the wheel:

- **Be especially alert around dawn and dusk.** Deer and other wildlife are often more active during these hours, while reduced visibility can make them harder to spot.

- **Use your high beams when conditions allow.** High beams can help illuminate more of the roadway and shoulder, giving you additional time to spot an animal ahead.

- **Watch for eye-shine along the roadside.** Your headlights may reflect off a deer's eyes before you can clearly see the animal itself.

- **Brake in a straight line—do not swerve.** If a deer enters your path, brake firmly while maintaining control of your vehicle whenever possible. Swerving can cause a loss of control or put you into the path of another vehicle.

- **If you see one deer, expect more.** Deer frequently travel together, so another animal may be close behind the first.

- **Always wear your seat belt.** It remains one of the most important protections you have if a collision occurs.

Where Is the Risk Highest?

State Farm's 2025–2026 data shows the five states with the highest likelihood of an animal-vehicle collision are:

1. **West Virginia — 1 in 46**

2. **Montana — 1 in 54**

3. **Wisconsin — 1 in 62**

4. **Pennsylvania — 1 in 64**

5. **Michigan — 1 in 68**

West Virginia has remained at the top of the list for more than a decade.

If a Collision Happens

Even with proper precautions, not every deer strike can be avoided. If you do strike an animal, move your vehicle to a safe location when possible, activate your hazard lights, and contact authorities if the animal or your vehicle is creating a roadway hazard. Report it to your carrier and Hyfield maintenance. Avoid approaching an injured animal, and inspect your vehicle for damage before continuing.

Deer strike season is a good reminder that conditions can change in an instant. Stay focused, keep your speed appropriate for the conditions, watch the shoulders, and give yourself as much time as possible to react.

**Stay alert, buckle up, and drive safe.**