Mississippi drivers rank 7th in the nation for the likelihood of an animal collision

Mississippi drivers rank 7th in the nation for the likelihood of an animal collision.  State Farm data shows our drivers have a 1 in 57 chance of colliding with an animal.  The national average is 1 in 109.  West Virginia came in first on the list, with the risk of a car-animal collision at 1 in 37.

Additionally, the analysis reveals there were over 36,000 animal collision claims for Mississippi from July 1, 2020 to June 30, 2021. The big picture for the insurance industry on a national level reveals an estimated 2.1 million animal collisions over those same months (July 1, 2020 – June 30, 2021).

• Slow down.  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.

• Move your vehicle to a safe place: Pull to the side of the road and turn on your hazard lights.
• Call police: If an animal is blocking traffic and could be create a threat for other drivers. If the collision results in injury or property damage, you may need to fill out an official report. This report may prove useful when filing your insurance claim.
• Document: Take photographs of the road, your surroundings and damage. This could be important documentation for your insurance claim.
• Don’t assume your vehicle is safe to drive: Look for leaking fluid, loose parts, tire damage, broken lights and other hazard. If your vehicle seems unsafe to drive, call for a tow. This could prevent further damage.
• Contact your insurance company: Quickly file your insurance claim. Drivers are encouraged to speak with your insurance agent now about comprehensive coverage, which typically covers repairs for collisions with animals.

1. ​West Virginia (1 in 37)
2. Montana (1 in 39)
3. South Dakota (1 in 48)
4. Michigan (1 in 54)
5. Pennsylvania (1 in 54)
6. Wisconsin (1 in 56)
7. Mississippi (1 in 57)
8. Wyoming (1 in 58)
9. Minnesota (1 in 58)
10. Iowa (1 in 59)