See Missouri Places with More than 3,500 Deer Collisions Annually

I've run into a deer before in Missouri and I honestly can't think of many of my fellow residents who can't say the same. Did you know that Missouri annually has more than 3,500 deer collisions and there's a map that shows exactly where.

The Missouri Department of Transportation points out that it's October and November when the most deer collisions with vehicles happen which makes this very vital information now. They say that in the most recent full year (2023), Missourians hit 3,591 crashes that involved deer.

I came upon a very interesting map that has been shared by Science Direct which shows a heat map revealing the places in Missouri with the most deer collisions with vehicles.

It's no surprise that in the parts of Missouri with the largest populations and the busiest highways also have the most deer collisions. Considering the high speed limits on I-70, any collision in that part of Missouri will be serious.

What can you do to avoid colliding with the many deer in Missouri especially during October and November?

I was always told by my dad to never swerve if I see a deer in front of me and the Missouri Department of Conservation agrees. The best thing you can do is reduce your speed as much as possible and hope the animal gets off the roadway before you get to where they are. I remember one trip I had to make on Highway 36 going west about 8 years ago. I had to travel during the extremely early morning hours before sunrise and my eyes were constantly watching for deer on both sides of the highway. I counted dozens that morning, but fortunately for me none crossed my path.

If you're driving in Missouri during October or November, assume there are deer waiting around every corner and drive accordingly. More than likely you'll be correct.