Mississippi drivers face rising deer collision risk as fall arrives
State transportation officials report a 6% jump in vehicle-deer crashes for 2025, urging motorists to watch road edges during dawn and dusk.
By Abena Mensah ·
Mississippi Department of Transportation Executive Director Brad White warned that drivers must increase vigilance as cooler weather settles across the state. Deer activity is peaking, creating a heightened risk for vehicle collisions on roadways throughout the region.
State records show that MDOT received reports of more than 4,000 vehicle-deer collisions in 2025. That figure represents a 6% increase compared to the previous year. White noted that these incidents can result in severe injuries and expensive vehicle damage.
A two-decade study by State Farm places Mississippi at the seventh-highest position nationwide for animal collision risk. The data equates to a 1 in 81 likelihood of a motorist striking an animal. From July 2025 through June 2026, the insurance agency logged 1.6 million claims for damage caused by such collisions.
The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety reported 210 deaths resulting from vehicle-animal collisions in 2024. Madison County recorded the highest number of deer-related crashes over the last decade with 2,437 incidents. Desoto County followed with 2,341 collisions during the same period.
MDOT data indicates that deer are most prevalent between October and January, though crossings occur year-round. Approximately 20% of deer-related crashes happen in the morning, while more than 50% occur between 5 p.m. and midnight. Because deer travel in herds, the sighting of one animal often signals that others are nearby.
Officials advise drivers to scan the edges of the roadway to anticipate sudden movements. Using high beams when no oncoming traffic is present helps drivers detect the reflection in a deer's eyes from a distance. If a deer enters the path of a vehicle, drivers should brake firmly and keep the steering wheel straight rather than swerving.
White emphasized that deer are unpredictable when startled. He urged motorists to remain alert during early morning and evening hours, avoid distractions, and ensure their seat belts are fastened.
Source: Magnolia Tribune
