Montana Ranked Worst in Nation for Fatal Animal-Related Crashes

Montana is known for its hazardous winter driving conditions, but it's not just the icy roads that pose a threat. Big Sky Country has also just been ranked among the top in the country for fatal animal-related crashes.

Montana boasts 73,567 miles of public roads, with 12,927 of that being state highway. Since most of these roads are located in rural areas, where many animals live, it's no surprise that we rank high in this new study.

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The recent data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration was analyzed by Florida personal injury lawyers Anidjar & Levine. After their analysis, Montana was ranked number 1 in the country for fatal animal-related crashes involving a non-fixed object in each state between 2018 and 2022.

Out of 137 reported crashes involving non-fixed objects, 29 of these incidents were fatal due to animals. A non-fixed object could be a variety of scenarios involving pedestrians, cyclists, and parked vehicles.

According to the Montana Highway Patrol, about 9,000 animal-related crashes have occurred over the last three years. Deer are by far the most common cause of these incidents, and the highest likelihood of deer collisions occurs during the rut (Fall).

Top 5 States with Fatal Vehicle Crashes Involving an Animal

1. Montana 21.2%
2. North Dakota 12.7%
3. Wisconsin 12.3%
4. South Dakota 11.3%
5. Wyoming 10.5%

Bozeman Taking Action

With the number of drivers on Montana's roads increasing year by year, accidents are most likely going to increase. However, work is being done to help solve the problem.

The Center for Large Landscape Conservation, located in Bozeman, is tackling the issue of wildlife collisions. They are pinpointing and addressing specific problem areas while developing innovative solutions to enhance road safety for both animals and drivers. One of their key initiatives has been the creation of wildlife crossings.

Credit: MDT.mt, NCSA , Anidjar & Levine, Montana-RightNow