The Odds Of Your Car Hitting An Animal In Illinois Or Wisconsin

If you’ve spent much time driving Northern Illinois or southern Wisconsin lately, you’ve probably noticed that our roads are becoming a little more dangerous, and it has nothing to do with potholes or distracted drivers.

Although, if we're being honest, those things suck, too.

We’re smack in the middle of deer mating season, and it’s also the time of year when young coyotes begin dispersing around the area in search of territory of their own. That means more wildlife moving around, often at the worst possible time for motorists.

So, just what are your odds of hitting an animal while driving?

brown deer on gray asphalt road during daytime

A Major Insurance Company Took A Good Look At This Question

According to State Farm’s latest animal collision data, Wisconsin ranks third in the entire nation, with drivers facing a 1-in-62 chance of an animal collision during the year ending June 30th, 2026.

Illinois, meanwhile, ranks 35th, with odds of approximately 1 in 195. That’s considerably better than Wisconsin, but hardly a reason to relax when you’re driving through the countryside.

Nationwide, State Farm estimates more than 1.6 million animal-related vehicle insurance claims during that same period, costing approximately $1.9 billion.

And this is definitely the time of year to pay attention. October, November and December account for approximately 41% of animal collision claims nationally. November is particularly dangerous, thanks in part to deer mating season.

Wisconsin transportation officials report that 42% of the state's deer crashes last year occurred during those three months, with November recording more than 3,300 collisions.

Deer crossing a road in a forest

Here's Some Advice For Those On Our Roads At This Time Of Year

Slow down, especially around dawn and dusk. Watch for glowing eyes along the roadside, and remember that where there’s one deer, there may be several more.

And if an animal suddenly appears in your path, brake firmly and stay in your lane rather than swerving. A collision with a deer is bad enough. Losing control of your vehicle could be considerably worse.

So, as we head into the holiday season, keep an eye on the roads. You never know who, or what, might be waiting around the next bend.

The holidays are expensive enough without worrying about additional body shop and hospital bills.