Wyoming motorists face a 1 in 82 chance of colliding with a wild animal, according to 2024-25 data from State Farm. This probability ranks Wyoming as the ninth highest at-risk state in the nation for wildlife-vehicle collisions. The Wyoming Game & Fish Department reports approximately 7,600 such accidents involving big game occur annually across the state.
The Statistical Reality of Wyoming Roadways
While the national average for animal-vehicle collisions stands at 1 in 139, Wyoming’s rate significantly exceeds that baseline. State Farm’s industry analysis, which processed 1.7 million claims nationally between July 2024 and June 2025, highlights the persistent danger for drivers in the Mountain West. For comparison, West Virginia remains the highest-risk state with odds of 1 in 40, while Nevada is the safest at 1 in 966.
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Did you know?
The week following the end of daylight saving time sees a 16% spike in deer-vehicle collisions. Reduced visibility during dusk and dawn hours significantly increases the likelihood of an encounter.
Real-World Impacts on Wyoming Drivers
The human toll of these collisions often goes beyond simple insurance claims. Michael McDill of Casper experienced a secondary collision after braking for a buck on Outer Drive; the sudden stop caused a following vehicle to strike his truck, totaling it. “Luckily nobody was hurt,” McDill said, though the buck involved in the initial encounter survived and trotted away.
For others, the experience is more traumatic. Jill Van Overbeke, who struck a moose on the interstate, noted the suddenness of the event. “I turned the wheel a tiny bit and hit her head,” she said, recalling the impact that shattered her windshield while traveling at 78 mph. Similarly, Janet Cunningham recounted the emotional weight of a collision on Highway 230, where a fawn was killed after following its mother across the road.
Mitigation Strategies: Wildlife Crossings and Infrastructure
State agencies are increasingly turning to structural solutions to curb these accidents. According to Amanda Fry of the Wyoming Game & Fish Department, wildlife crossings are highly effective. “Underpasses and overpasses, coupled with wildlife-proof fencing, can reduce crashes by 80 to 90%,” Fry stated. These projects, funded through partnerships between the Wyoming Department of Transportation and various community groups, aim to guide animals toward safe passage rather than across high-traffic lanes.
Regulations on Collecting Roadkill
Wyoming law allows for the collection of roadkill, but there are strict requirements. Motorists must obtain approval from the Wyoming Game & Fish Department via the 511 WYO ROADS mobile app before removing an animal. The policy applies to deer, elk, pronghorn, moose, wild bison, and wild turkey. Officials warn that collecting carcasses is prohibited in construction zones or national parks, and safety remains a priority; field dressing on the roadway is strictly forbidden.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What should I do if I hit a deer in Wyoming?
- Ensure your vehicle is safely off the road and use emergency flashers. If the animal is dead and you wish to collect it, use the 511 WYO ROADS app to request authorization.
- Which state has the highest risk of animal collisions?
- According to State Farm data, West Virginia currently holds the highest risk at 1 in 40.
- How effective are wildlife crossings?
- The Wyoming Game & Fish Department reports that crossings and fencing can reduce collisions by 80% to 90% in specific areas.
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