Important Message to Drivers: Look Out for Wildlife in Montana

One of the best things about living in Montana is seeing wildlife, but those encounters can turn dangerous on the road. Even the most populated places in the state have wild animals roaming the streets on occasion.

According to the Montana Department of Transportation, drivers face a high risk of wildlife collisions. You should be on alert for deer and other animals along Montana highways, especially during the Spring and Fall.

MDT Safety Tips for Avoiding a Wildlife Collision in Montana:

• Buckle up, drive sober, and stay alert. Follow posted speed limits and watch for animal warning signs.
• Look at the roadway ahead. Drive with caution by scanning roadsides and ditches for animals.
• Keep headlights on in low/no light conditions and use high beams for better visibility when there is no oncoming traffic.
• When you see one animal, expect more to appear

Get our free mobile app

I had to learn the hard way a few years ago. I lived just east of Bozeman and was driving into work during a blizzard. A deer actually headbutted my rear driver's side door. Thankfully, it only left a dent, and my car was still drivable. That isn't the case for most people who hit deer while driving in Montana.

State Farm released new data based on insurance claims involving animal collisions from July 1, 2024, through June 30, 2025, and Montana ranks second in the U.S.

During peak hunting season in Montana, the odds of a wildlife collision can be as high as 1 in 53, so if you don't want to total your vehicle and be stranded on the side of the road, stay alert.

I drive to Bozeman from Manhattan for work, and have seen multiple deer in the middle or on the side of the road. Hunting season is in full swing, and that's pushing more animals down into the valley. Do yourself a favor, and slow down. The faster you're going, the worse the damage will be if you do happen to hit a deer.

Deer aren't the only animals you have to worry about in Montana. There's also elk, moose, bears, and bighorn sheep. I could keep going, but there are too many to mention. The point is, always pay attention when you're driving. When possible, turn on your high beams when driving at night. It can help you spot animals sooner and potentially increase your reaction time.