NASHVILLE, Tenn. (RFD NEWS) — Animal-related vehicle crashes remain a growing safety concern in rural America, with new analysis showing elevated fatality risks in states with large wildlife populations and extensive rural road networks. Data reviewed by Wilk Law, using federal crash records, highlights the ongoing danger for drivers and agricultural communities.
States across the Great Plains, Midwest, and Northern Rockies rank highest for fatal crashes involving animals. Montana is at the top, followed by Wisconsin, Kansas, Alaska, and North Dakota. West Virginia, Iowa, South Dakota, Oklahoma, and Pennsylvania round out the top 10. These states share common traits — expansive rural highways, abundant wildlife, and frequent travel during low-visibility periods such as dawn and dusk.
At the other end of the spectrum, more urbanized states report far fewer fatal incidents. Massachusetts, California, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, and Connecticut rank among the safest, with significantly lower rates of fatal animal-related crashes.
The contrast highlights how geography shapes risk. Rural transportation corridors tied to agriculture and natural landscapes increase exposure, especially during peak fieldwork seasons when traffic rises.
Farm-Level Takeaway: Rural driving conditions increase the risk of serious collisions with animals.
Tony St. James, RFD NEWS Markets Specialist
USDA’s 2026 Food Price Outlook projects food prices rising 3.1%, with higher beef costs and falling egg prices shaping consumer trends.
February 25, 2026 11:46 AM
·
High beef prices are squeezing South Texas restaurants, but Texas Farm Bureau says consumer demand remains strong despite record costs.
February 25, 2026 11:12 AM
·
Reliable canal infrastructure supports long-term access to global agricultural markets.
February 25, 2026 08:00 AM
·
For communities that depend on agriculture as their primary economic engine, the recession is not defined by headlines on Wall Street. It is defined by the quiet disappearance of the businesses that once processed, serviced, and supported the crop.
February 25, 2026 05:00 AM
·
Alan Bjerga of the National Milk Producers Federation discusses the Dairy Margin Coverage program, recent improvements, and what producers need to know ahead of this week’s enrollment deadline.
February 24, 2026 03:01 PM
·
UNL Extension’s Troy Walz discusses the Nebraska Ranch Practicum, where sessions are held, how producers can get involved, and what ranchers can gain from participating in the program.
February 24, 2026 01:16 PM
·
