Wildlife and Collisions

Wildlife Collision Season Is Here: What Northwest Drivers Need to Know

As deer and other wildlife become more active near roadways this fall, drivers in Washington, Oregon and Idaho should take extra precautions and review their Auto Insurance coverage.

Fall brings cooler temperatures, shorter days and an increased risk of wildlife-related crashes across the Pacific Northwest. As deer and other animals migrate from mountainous areas, drivers are more likely to encounter wildlife crossing roads and highways — sometimes with little warning.

According to State Farm's 2025–2026 wildlife collision analysis, U.S. drivers have a one-in-145 chance of colliding with a deer or other animal. While reported wildlife collisions have declined slightly nationwide compared to the previous year, October through December remains the highest-risk period.

How Does Your State Compare?

According to State Farm's 2025–2026 wildlife collision analysis, Idaho drivers have a one-in-159 chance of colliding with a deer or other animal, compared to one-in-223 in Oregon and one-in-305 in Washington. Nationally, drivers face a one-in-145 chance of a wildlife collision.

Although the odds differ by state, wildlife collisions can happen anywhere — from rural highways and mountain passes to suburban neighborhoods and city streets.

"Collisions between vehicles and large animals can cause severe damage and serious injury to drivers and passengers," said Kenton Brine, NW Insurance Council president. "Using caution and staying alert can save your life and avoid the need for costly vehicle repairs."

Does Your Auto Insurance Cover Wildlife Collisions?

A collision with a deer or elk can result in significant vehicle damage and potentially serious injuries. Unfortunately, not every Auto Insurance policy provides coverage for these losses.

Comprehensive Coverage: If your vehicle is damaged in a collision with a deer or other animal, optional Comprehensive Coverage generally pays for repairs, minus your deductible. Liability Insurance alone does not cover damage to your own vehicle from hitting wildlife.

Personal Injury Protection (PIP): This coverage can help pay medical expenses for you and your passengers if you're injured in a collision, regardless of who is at fault. Availability and requirements vary by state.

Before heading out this fall, contact your insurance agent or company to review your coverage and make sure you have the protection you need.

Seven Tips to Avoid Wildlife Collisions

NW Insurance Council recommends these precautions to help drivers stay safe during wildlife collision season:

1. Be especially alert at dawn and dusk. Wildlife collisions are most common between sunset and midnight and during the hours surrounding sunrise.
2. Slow down in wildlife-crossing areas. Use extra caution near forests, agricultural fields and areas with large deer or elk populations. Remember that wildlife can also appear on suburban and city streets.
3. Watch for more than one animal. Deer often travel in groups. If you see one crossing the road, others may be close behind.
4. Use your high beams when appropriate. On dark roads, high-beam headlights can help you spot animals sooner. Dim your lights for oncoming traffic or vehicles directly ahead.
5. Brake firmly, but don't swerve. If an animal appears in your path, apply your brakes and stay in your lane. Swerving can cause you to lose control or collide with another vehicle.
6. Know what to do after a collision. If you hit an animal, pull over when it's safe and contact law enforcement for guidance. Requirements for reporting wildlife collisions may vary by state.
7. Always wear your seat belt. Buckling up is one of the simplest and most effective ways to protect yourself and your passengers in a crash.

Stay Alert, Stay Covered

Wildlife collisions can happen in an instant, even to experienced drivers. A little extra caution behind the wheel — combined with the right insurance coverage — can help protect you, your passengers and your vehicle.

As wildlife activity increases this fall, stay alert, slow down and make sure your Auto Insurance policy is ready for the unexpected.

For more information about Auto Insurance and wildlife collisions, contact NW Insurance Council at (800) 664-4942.