Visitors heading into Dallas for the OU vs. Texas game this weekend should be aware on the road as October begins peak season for animal collisions.

State Farm Insurance, which has offices in Seminole, has released its annual animal/deer collision research: New State Farm data reveals fewer animal collisions, but autumn months remain most dangerous Oklahoma ranks #28 nationwide for animal collisions, yet over 5,700 estimated claims were filed between July 1, 2024, and June 30, 2025 in the state still making animal collisions a likely occurrence.

Here’s what those traveling from OK to DFW this weekend should know:

• Deer account for the majority of vehicle damage caused by animal collisions, followed by unknown animals, rodents, dogs, raccoons, and cattle.

• Most animal-related crashes in the U.S. occur between October and December.

Over the past 12 months, the insurance industry has paid out claims for an estimated 1.7 million animal collisions nationwide.

Claim costs for these collisions can vary significantly, from minor bumper scratches to total vehicle loss, depending largely on factors such as the size of the animal involved.

Animal Collision Safety Tips

• Slow down. Reduce your vehicle’s speed and maintain a constant lookout for animals. Travel at a speed that will allow you to stop in time if an animal comes into the beam cast by your headlights.

• Use extra caution and slow-down in known animal crossing zones.

• Dusk to dawn are high-risk times; use high beams when appropriate.

• Scan the road and avoid swerving when you see an animal. Brake firmly when you notice an animal in or near your path but stay in your lane. Many serious crashes occur when drivers swerve to avoid a deer and hit another vehicle or lose control of their cars.

• Always wear your seatbelt.

After-crash tips

• Move your vehicle to a safe place: Pull to the side of the road and turn on your hazard lights.

• Call police: If an animal is blocking traffic and could be create a threat for other drivers.

• Document: Take photographs of the road, your surroundings and damage.

• Stay away from the animal: A frightened, wounded animal could use its legs and hooves to harm you. Do not attempt to move an animal.

• Don’t assume your vehicle is safe to drive: Look for leaking fluid, loose parts, tire damage, broken lights and other hazard.

• Contact your insurance company: Quickly file your insurance claim.