The Show Me State continues to rank among the worst states in terms of animal-vehicle collisions, despite a decline in recent years.

Missouri drivers have a 1 in 97 chance of colliding with an animal, compared to the national average of 1 in 139, according to a study conducted by State Farm. This puts Missouri at the No. 17 spot on State Farm’s national ranking.

From July 1, 2024, to June 30, 2025, roughly 1.7 million auto insurance claims were filed nationwide in relation to animal-vehicle crashes. Deer overwhelmingly made up the bulk of these incidents, accounting for more than 1.1 million of these claims. Unknown animals, rodents, dogs and raccoons round out the top 5 of animals most struck by vehicles.

Missouri sees fewer animal collisionsMap showing likelihood of vehicle-animal collisions across the U.S. between 2024-2025.

Map showing likelihood of vehicle-animal collisions across the U.S. between 2024-2025.

Despite Missouri still being designated as a “high-risk state,” the number of animal collision incidents reported has steadily declined in recent years.

Last year’s list from State Farm had Missouri in the No. 14 spot, with drivers having a 1 in 83 chance of hitting an animal. The Show Me State cracked the top 10 in the 2022/2023 rankings, with a 1 in 80 chance of an animal-vehicle collision.

Why fall increases your risk of hitting an animal

The likelihood of striking an animal on the road is at its peak during the fall, with that season alone making up 41% of all related claims.

November is the most dangerous month for animal collisions, followed by October and December.

How to avoid animal-vehicle collisions

Here are some tips courtesy of State Farm on how to avoid animals on the road.

  • Stay alert. Pay attention to “deer crossing” and “wildlife crossing” signs and be cautious in areas near woods or water.

  • Use high beams. Flicking your high beams on an animal in the road may cause the animal to scurry away. High beams also help illuminate dark roads.

  • Don’t swerve. If a car crash is inevitable, maintain control of your vehicle and stay on the road.

  • Brake, as necessary. If you can avoid hitting the animal, reduce your speed, honk your horn and tap your brakes to warn other drivers. If there are no drivers behind you, brake hard.

  • Remember peak season. Animal collisions happen most during October through December, which is hunting and mating season.

  • Remember mealtime. Watch for animals in the road between dusk and dawn.

  • Watch for herds. If you see one deer, there are probably more nearby.

  • Don’t use a whistle. No scientific evidence supports that car-mounted deer whistles work.

  • Wear seat belts. Always obey speed limits and wear seat belts.

This article originally appeared on USATNetwork: Missouri among top states for animal vs. vehicle crashes