Likelihood of hitting a deer goes up for the next year

Nationally, drivers are 3 percent more likely to collide with a deer, elk, or moose in the coming year compared to last year. It’s also higher than the national average of 1 in 169.

Missouri ranks 17th in the country for the most potential deer collisions.

Pennsylvania ranks third behind West Virginia and Montana on State Farm’s annual deer claim study. “I think a year ago (Montana’s odds) were at a 1 in 63 chance, so the odds are getting a little worse for Montana drivers”.

Typically, hitting a deer doesn’t lead to higher insurance rates.

“If you do see a deer, slam on your breaks, don’t swerve”.

The report measured accidents for the 12 months ended June 30, but State Farm releases its outlook for the current 12-month period now to coincide with the time when these accidents tend to increase as fall arrives and deer are more active – mating and feeding.

Avoid swerving when you see a deer – Brake firmly when you notice a deer in or near your path, but stay in your lane. If you pass one by the road, there may be others nearby.

McConchie said drivers need to be on the lookout earlier this year, and pay attention to deer crossing signs alerting drivers to slow down.

The odds that a Virginia driver will hit a deer in the coming year are 1 in 94. That way your trip is shorter and thus, there is less time for an accident to occur. According to the Texas Department of Transportation, in 2015 there were 24 fatal auto crashes involving wild animals on Texas roads. Deer are always a risk for motorists, but we’re heading into the worst season for collisions.

Devices not proven effective – Do not rely on devices such as deer whistles, deer fences and reflectors to deter deer.