Study: Michigan drivers 8th most likely to hit a deer, other large animal

DETROIT – A new study shows just how dangerous deer are to Michigan drivers.

State Farm, using insurance claims and other data, released a study on Monday showing Michigan as the eighth most dangerous state for collisions with large animals, including deer, elk and moose.

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On average, one of every 85 Michigan drivers will have an insurance claim for damage caused by a collision with a deer in 2017.

The top ten states a driver was most likely to have a claim from a collision with a deer, elk or moose in the 2016-2017 study are:

1.    West Virginia   1 in 43 chance
2.    Montana 1 in 57 chance
3.    Pennsylvania    1 in 63 chance
4.    Iowa            1 in 69 chance
5.    Wisconsin        1 in 72 chance
6.    South Dakota    1 in 73 chance
7.    Minnesota       1 in 74 chance
8.    Wyoming 1 in 79 chance
9.    Michigan        1 in 85 chance
10.    North Dakota    1 in 87 chance

The average cost for deer-vehicle claims has gone up nationwide to $4,179 from $3,995. The likelihood of colliding with a large animal more than doubles during the months of October, November and December, during deer mating season.

State Farm provided some tips to help drivers avoid these dangerous incidents:

•    Slow down, particularly at dusk and dawn
•    If you see one deer, be prepared for more deer to cross the road
•    Pay attention to deer crossing signs
•    Always buckle up, every trip, every time
•    Use your high beams to see farther, except when there is oncoming traffic
•    Brake if you can, but avoid swerving, which could result in a more severe crash
•    Remain focused on the road, scanning for hazards, including animals
•    Avoid distractions, like devices or eating, which might cause you to miss seeing an animal
•    Do not rely on products such as deer whistles, which are not proven effective
•    If riding a motorcycle, always wear protective gear and keep focus on the road ahead
 


About the Author:

Ken Haddad has proudly been with WDIV/ClickOnDetroit since 2013. He also authors the Morning Report Newsletter and various other newsletters, and helps lead the WDIV Insider team. He's a big sports fan and is constantly sipping Lions Kool-Aid.