And while driving can be stressful enough as it is, adding animals into the mix can make things even more dangerous. In fact, car crashes involving animals are more common than one might think, especially in certain states where wildlife populations are higher. Here are the top 10 states where car crashes with animals are most likely to occur.
1. Montana
Montana takes the top spot on our list, with a high number of car crashes involving animals each year. The state is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, elk, and bears, which can often be found crossing roads and highways. Drivers in Montana should be extra cautious, especially during dawn and dusk when animals are most active.
2. Wyoming
Wyoming is another state where car crashes with animals are common. The state’s wide open spaces provide plenty of room for wildlife to roam, increasing the chances of encounters with vehicles. Drivers in Wyoming should always be on the lookout for animals crossing the road, especially in rural areas.
3. West Virginia
West Virginia is known for its beautiful landscapes and abundance of wildlife, making it a hotspot for car crashes with animals. Deer are particularly common in the state, posing a significant risk to drivers, especially during peak mating season in the fall.
4. Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania is another state where car crashes with animals are a frequent occurrence. The state is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, elk, and black bears, which can often be found near roads and highways. Drivers in Pennsylvania should be cautious, especially in wooded areas where animals are more likely to be present.
5. Michigan
Michigan is known for its large deer population, making car crashes with animals a common occurrence in the state. Drivers in Michigan should be on the lookout for deer crossing the road, especially during the early morning and evening hours when they are most active.
6. Idaho
Idaho is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including deer, elk, and moose, all of which can pose a risk to drivers on the road. Car crashes with animals are common in Idaho, particularly in rural areas where wildlife populations are higher.
7. Iowa
Iowa is another state where car crashes with animals are a regular occurrence. The state’s rural landscapes provide plenty of habitat for wildlife, increasing the chances of encounters with vehicles. Drivers in Iowa should be extra cautious, especially during the fall when deer are most active.
8. Minnesota
Minnesota is known for its large population of deer, making car crashes with animals a common occurrence in the state. Drivers in Minnesota should be on the lookout for deer crossing the road, especially in wooded areas and near water sources where they are more likely to be present.
9. South Dakota
South Dakota is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, elk, and bison, all of which can pose a risk to drivers on the road. Car crashes with animals are common in South Dakota, particularly in rural areas where wildlife populations are higher.
10. North Dakota
Rounding out our list is North Dakota, where car crashes with animals are a frequent occurrence. The state’s open landscapes provide plenty of room for wildlife to roam, increasing the chances of encounters with vehicles. Drivers in North Dakota should always be on the lookout for animals crossing the road, especially in rural areas.
In conclusion, car crashes with animals are a common occurrence in many states across the country. Drivers should always be on the lookout for wildlife crossing the road, especially in areas where populations are higher. By staying alert and cautious, drivers can help reduce the risk of car crashes with animals and stay safe on the road.