Your chances of hitting a deer in Texas aren't good, and while that's welcome news, it doesn't mean the state doesn't have its share of deer-related collisions.

According to a press release from State Farm, Texas ranks 5th in the nation in deer collisions. It's projected that there will be 60,857 deer related crashes in the state this year. Pennsylvania, Michigan, New York, and North Carolina are all projected to have more deer-vehicle collisions.

While nearly 61,000 deer-related collisions sounds like a lot, State Farm says the chances of Texas drivers actually being involved in a wreck involving a deer are actually pretty low. Texas is the 38th riskiest state in the nation when it comes to deer-related accidents, according to the insurer.

State Farm also announced that 46 percent of collisions with deer occur from October to December.

So, what do you do if you hit a deer? Here's what State Farm recommends.

  • Move your vehicle to a safe place: Pull to the side of the road and turn on your hazard lights.
  • Call police:  If a deer is blocking traffic, it could be creating a threat for other drivers.
  • Document: Take photographs of the road, your surroundings and damage.
  • Avoid the animal: A frightened, wounded deer could use its legs and hooves to harm you.
  • Contact your insurance company: Quickly file your insurance claim.
  • Don’t assume your vehicle is safe to drive: Look for leaking fluid, loose parts, tire damage, broken lights and other hazards.

 

The best advice? Slow down when it's dark and watch out for what is crossing the road no matter where you are.

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