Every fall, Minnesota motorists brace for more than just icy roads. State Farm’s annual vehicle‑safety report reveals that drivers in the North Star State now face a 1‑in‑91 chance of colliding with a deer this year. That odds places Minnesota at #12 among the 12 states most likely to experience a deer‑vehicle crash in 2026.
How the Numbers Compare Nationwide
Nationally, the average driver’s risk of an animal‑related collision sits at about 1‑in‑145, according to State Farm’s data covering July 1, 2025 through June 30, 2026. Minnesota’s risk is therefore noticeably higher than the countrywide average. The report also notes that over 1.6 million animal‑collision insurance claims were filed across the United States during that 12‑month period.
States With the Highest Risks
West Virginia tops the list with a 1‑in‑46 chance, followed by Montana (1‑in‑54) and Wisconsin (1‑in‑62). Minnesota’s 1‑in‑91 odds sit just behind Kansas (1‑in‑89) and ahead of Iowa, Mississippi and Virginia, each at 1‑in‑81.
- West Virginia – 1 in 46
- Montana – 1 in 54
- Wisconsin – 1 in 62
- Pennsylvania – 1 in 64
- Michigan – 1 in 68
- Iowa – 1 in 81
- Mississippi – 1 in 81
- Virginia – 1 in 81
- Maine – 1 in 85
- South Dakota – 1 in 86
- Kansas – 1 in 89
- Minnesota – 1 in 91
Why Minnesota’s Deer Population Matters
The state’s deer herd is estimated at roughly one million animals, according to the World Population Review’s 2026 deer‑population report. That sizable population, combined with the heavy traffic on rural highways and the seasonal surge in deer activity during October through December, contributes to the elevated risk.
Practical Tips for Drivers
While the odds may seem daunting, simple precautions can reduce the likelihood of a collision. Drivers are encouraged to:
- Stay alert during dawn and dusk, when deer are most active.
- Reduce speed in known high‑collision zones, especially on county roads that cut through forested areas.
- Use high‑beam headlights when appropriate to improve visibility.
- Keep a safe distance from other vehicles, allowing extra reaction time if a deer darts onto the road.
Insurance providers, including State Farm, often offer optional coverage for animal‑related damage, which can provide peace of mind for families who rely on their vehicles for work, school and church activities.
Looking Ahead
State Farm’s annual report will continue to track trends in animal‑related crashes. Although Minnesota’s current odds are higher than the national average, the data also shows that many states have seen modest improvements over previous years. Residents can take comfort in the fact that proactive driving habits and continued awareness can help keep families safe on the road.
Original reporting: News Talk 1340 KROC-AM – News and Talk – Rochester News Radio — read the source article.
