Deer! Oh Dear!

• New analysis from Churchill Motor Insurance reveals animal collisions peak in May
• Deer are the most frequently reported animal on roads in England and Scotland
• Longer days, increased wildlife movement, heavier traffic, and denser vegetation contribute to a higher risk of animal collisions in May
• Motorists in the North West and East of England are most likely to encounter an animal on the carriageway

New analysis1 by Churchill Motor Insurance reveals that May is the most dangerous month for encountering animals on UK roads. The months of April, May and June account for half (51 per cent) of all animals reported killed on Scottish roads and over a third (36 per cent) of animals reported on English roads, with numbers peaking in May.

Animal collisions reported in Scotland show that, over a year, vehicles are responsible for the deaths of 1,092 animals on Scottish motorways and A roads, with deer accounting for a staggering 61 per cent of all reported roadkill in Scotland. National Highways reported 5,230 animals on the English road network, of which 33 per cent were deer in 2023. 

Motorists in the North West and East are most at risk of encountering animals on the English roads, with those in the East Midlands least likely. Motorists on the M62, M6, M1, and M25 are most at risk.

Table One: Number of animals reported on roads by English region

Source: Churchill Insurance 2025

Collisions peak in May for several reasons. Animal activity increases as the days grow longer, especially during the mating season. Juvenile animals born in early spring begin to roam, often crossing roads while foraging and seeking new territories. Road traffic also increases as the weather improves. Additionally, spring growth causes vegetation along road verges to thicken, reducing visibility for both animals and drivers, making it harder to react in time.

Nicholas Mantel, Head of Churchill Motor Insurance, commented:  

“You could hit a deer at any time of year, but from our analysis, we know May is a peak month for deer collisions. It is important to stay extra vigilant, particularly in rural areas with dense vegetation and road signs that warn of deer. Where there is one deer, there are sure to be more, as they often live in small herds. Slamming on the brakes or swerving into oncoming traffic or the side of the road to avoid hitting an animal can be more dangerous than colliding with an animal. Take heed of warning signs and slow down to avoid an accident.

“Anyone who has collided with an animal should use caution when stopping or checking on the animal and only do it if it is safe to do so. It is also advisable to report the collision, depending on the location, the animal, and its injuries. Even if your car isn’t damaged, the animal could be fatally injured and suffering, so it’s a good idea to report it.”

Top tips if you’ve hit an animal

• Check all passengers in the vehicle are safe.

• If it is safe to do so, stop and check on the animal. Always remember to prioritise your own safety and the safety of other road users when dealing with an animal-related incident on the road.

• Pull over, turn on your hazard warning lights to alert other drivers, and switch off your engine.

• If the animal is injured, observe from a safe distance before approaching. Injured animals can become aggressive if they are hurt and frightened.

• Depending on the type of animal involved, you may need to report the incident to the police on 101 (for domestic pets), the RSPCA on 0300 1234 999, National Highways (for England) on 0300 123 5000 or Traffic Wales on 0845 602 6020 (motorway or major A road), or contact the owner or farmer to deal with the situation.

• Before you continue your journey check the vehicle for damage to make sure it remains safe to drive.

• Inform your insurance company as soon as possible. If it is safe to do so, take photos of the scene of the accident, including damage to the vehicle, this could be useful if you make claim on your insurance.

- ENDS -

Notes to Editors:

1 Freedom of Information request submitted to National Highways, the Welsh Government and Transport Scotland on 1st July 2024. National highways data for 2023 calendar year, Transport Scotland data July 2023 - June 2024.

For further information, please contact:

Unni Henry

PR Manager 

Email: unni.henry@directlinegroup.com 

Churchill

Founded in 1989, Churchill is now one of the UK's leading providers of general insurance, offering car, home and pet insurance cover over the phone or on-line. 

Churchill general insurance policies are underwritten by U K Insurance Limited, Registered office: The Wharf, Neville Street, Leeds LS1 4AZ. Registered in England and Wales No 1179980. U K Insurance Limited is authorised by the Prudential Regulation Authority and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and the Prudential Regulation Authority.  

Churchill and U K Insurance Limited are both part of Direct Line Insurance Group plc.   

Customers can find out more about Churchill products or get a quote by calling 0300 200 300 or visiting www.churchill.com.