Wildlife Collisions on I-75

Stretching from the Great Lakes to South Florida, Interstate 75 (I-75) crosses an incredible range of terrain — from forests to wetlands. It’s a highway that offers beauty and open roads, but also one of the most common settings for animal collisions on the highway. Each year, thousands of drivers experience sudden encounters with deer, wild boar, alligators, and other animals, often leading to serious property damage and, in some cases, life-threatening crashes. Understanding where and when these I-75 deer accidents are most likely to occur is essential for anyone traveling the corridor.

Where and When Wildlife Collisions Happen

Animal collisions are not limited to rural stretches of I-75. In fact, many crashes occur near urban edges where expanding development pushes wildlife closer to the road. States like Michigan, Ohio, and Kentucky see a surge in deer-related accidents during the fall rutting season, when deer are most active and unpredictable. These months coincide with shorter daylight hours and increased nighttime driving, heightening the danger.

In Florida, the situation changes dramatically. Drivers face different wildlife hazards — particularly alligators, turtles, and smaller animals crossing roadways. The southern section of I-75, known locally as “Alligator Alley,” has long been a hotspot for animal collisions on the highway. Reduced visibility at dawn and dusk makes these encounters especially risky.

Environmental factors also play a role. Wet weather can push animals closer to pavement for warmth, while construction zones and noise often disorient wildlife, causing sudden crossings in unexpected areas. Simply put, every region of I-75 carries its own wildlife risks, and each requires attentiveness behind the wheel.

The High-Risk Hours and Hotspots

Most I-75 deer accidents occur between 5 a.m. and 8 a.m. and again from 6 p.m. to midnight — the periods when deer are most active and light conditions are worst. These times of day present double danger: reduced visibility for drivers and increased movement from wildlife.

Hotspots for collisions include:

• Northern Michigan and Ohio woodlands, where dense forests border the highway. 
• The hilly terrain of Tennessee and Kentucky, where deer often dart across multiple lanes. 
• Southern Florida’s Alligator Alley, where alligators and panthers occasionally venture onto the road during cooler evenings. 

Drivers in these areas should reduce speed, especially when road signs indicate animal crossing zones. High beams can help illuminate eyes reflecting in the dark, but always switch to low beams when other vehicles approach.

Why These Collisions Are So Dangerous

Animal collisions may sound less serious than multi-car crashes, but their impact can be devastating. Striking a large deer or wild boar at highway speeds can cause drivers to lose control, veer into oncoming lanes, or hit roadside barriers. Even swerving to avoid an animal can trigger chain-reaction crashes.

According to the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), an estimated one to two million large animal collisions occur annually in the United States, causing more than 200 fatalities and tens of thousands of injuries. These statistics underline how serious wildlife collisions can be, particularly on busy routes like I-75.

Drivers should remember that airbags and crumple zones are designed for collisions with other vehicles, not animals. The unpredictability of wildlife movements makes reaction time and driver awareness crucial for safety.

Safety Tips for Avoiding Animal Collisions

The best way to avoid wildlife accidents is prevention. While no one can predict exactly when an animal will appear, the following practices can help reduce the risk:

1. Stay alert in rural or wooded areas. Watch for movement along the shoulders, especially near tree lines or open fields. 
2. Slow down during high-risk times. Dusk and dawn are the most dangerous hours for wildlife crossings. 
3. Use high beams when possible. They help spot animals’ reflective eyes earlier. 
4. Avoid swerving. Brake firmly and stay in your lane. 
5. Pay attention to warning signs. States install wildlife crossing signs where collisions are most frequent.

If an impact seems unavoidable, slow down as much as possible before contact. Maintaining control of your vehicle is far safer than making an abrupt, uncontrolled swerve.

What to Do After a Wildlife Collision

Even cautious drivers may not be able to avoid every animal on the road. If a collision occurs, safety and documentation should be your top priorities.

Pull over to a safe location, switch on your hazard lights, and check for any injuries. After ensuring safety, contact local authorities or highway patrol for assistance.

Use your phone to snap photos of key details. If another vehicle was involved, exchange contact and insurance information. File a police report, as insurance companies often require official documentation for wildlife-related claims.

Most importantly, get your vehicle inspected before continuing your trip. Even seemingly minor front-end damage can conceal hidden issues that make the car unsafe to drive.

Protecting Your Rights and Your Safety

After an animal collision, many drivers are unsure about insurance coverage. Most policies classify wildlife crashes as “comprehensive” rather than “collision” claims, meaning deductibles and coverage terms differ. Review your policy and contact your insurer promptly to report the incident.

In some cases — particularly on sections of I-75 with poor signage, broken fencing, or ongoing roadwork — liability can extend beyond the driver. If a local agency or contractor failed to maintain proper safety measures, you may have grounds for compensation. An experienced attorney can help review your case and guide you through the next steps.

Staying Safe on the Open Road

Wildlife collisions on I-75 remind us that not all highway dangers come from other vehicles. Nature itself poses unpredictable risks that demand awareness and patience. Each region of I-75 — from Michigan’s forests to Florida’s wetlands — brings its own challenges, but the key to safety remains the same: stay alert, slow down, and expect the unexpected.

Even a split-second decision can determine whether a close call becomes a serious crash. By knowing where and when animal collisions are most likely and practicing safe driving habits, you can help protect yourself, your passengers, and the wildlife that call these areas home.

If you’ve been involved in an I-75 deer accident or another wildlife-related crash, we can connect you with an I-75 car accident attorney who can help you understand your options and protect your right to compensation.