Virginia drivers rank 12th in the nation for animal collisions, including deer, dogs, farm animals and large rodents.
Virginia drivers have a 1 in 72 chance of colliding with an animal while driving. In 2019, State Farm had 13,067 auto claims for animal collisions in Virginia. Nationally, State Farm had over 1.96 million animal collisions this past year.
Of those collisions, the vast majority were deer. In fact, 67% (1.3 million claims) involved a deer collision.
COVID also has had an impact on animal strikes. Compared to last year at the same time, there has been a 20% decrease (more than 70,000 claims) in animal collisions due to fewer drivers being on the road.
Fall is the prime season for animal collisions for drivers. According to a new State Farm study, most animal-related crashes in the U.S. occur from October to December.
These tips may help drivers avoid collisions with animals.
Use extra caution and slow-down in known animal crossing zones.
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
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. Safety belts saved an estimated 114,955 lives in 2017.
Tips for after a crash:
Move your vehicle to a safe place: Pull to the side of the road and turn on your hazard lights.
Call the police if an animal is blocking traffic and could create a threat for other drivers.
Document: Take photographs of the road, your surroundings and the damage.
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.
Don’t assume your vehicle is safe to drive. Look for leaking fluid, loose parts, tire damage, broken lights and other hazards.
Contact your insurance company: Quickly file your insurance claim.
