By Kurt Bresswein | For lehighvalleylive.com

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White-tailed deer are seen Dec. 31, 2011, in Lenape Park in Cranford, New Jersey. A 2017 State Farm analysis finds New Jersey ranks No. 34 in the nation for odds of a driver hitting a deer, while Pennsylvania is near the top at No. 3. (NJ Advance Media file photo | For lehighvalleylive.com)

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The chances of hitting a deer while driving in Pennsylvania are getting worse, according to an analysis from State Farm.

This week, the insurance provider provided its update ranking on the odds of a collision, and Pennsylvania once again comes in third-worst in the United States with a 1-in-63 chance.

Pennsylvania was also No. 3 last year but with a 1-in-70 chance of collision, according to State Farm.

Tops in the nation for deer-crash risk is West Virginia, followed by Montana.

New Jersey ranks No. 34 this year, creeping up from No. 36 in 2016.

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West Virginia is worst in the nation for the chances of hitting a deer, followed by Montana, according to State Farm insurance. (Courtesy image | For lehighvalleylive.com)

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November is the worst month for crashes, followed by October, as white-tailed deer like those in Pennsylvania and New Jersey enter the rut.

"Mating season more than doubles the likelihood of collision with a large animal," State Farm says. "So be especially alert during the months of October, November and December — deer mating season.

"Whether you hit a large animal, or it jumps into the side of your vehicle, such collisions can cause significant injuries and property damage."

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MORE: Free-range deer in new area of Pa. found with wasting disease

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The average property damage caused by a collision with a deer is $4,179, up from $3,995 last year, according to the analysis.

Deer crashes are covered under the comprehensive coverage of the auto policy, not collision.

There were 1.35 million deer claims reported to State Farm nationally from July 1, 2016, through June 2017, the analysis finds. That includes more than 141,000 Pennsylvania deer claims.

Around dawn and dusk are the times when drivers are most likely to encounter deer, but State Farm recommends being alert and on the lookout at all times.

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State Farm offers these tips to avoid a collision with a deer while driving. (Courtesy image | For lehighvalleylive.com)

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State Farm's tips to help keep drivers safe include:

Slow down, particularly at dusk and dawn.

If you see one deer, be prepared for more deer to cross the road.

Pay attention to deer crossing signs.

Always buckle up — every trip, every time.

Use your high beams to see farther, except when there is oncoming traffic.

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Brake if you can, but avoid swerving. This can result in a more severe crash.

Remain focused on the road. Scan for hazards, including animals.

Avoid distractions. Devices or eating might cause you to miss seeing an animal.

Do not rely on products such as deer whistles. They are not proven effective.

If riding a motorcycle, always wear protective gear. Keep focus on the road ahead.

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A sign warns of high deer traffic in South Jersey. (NJ Advance Media file photo | For lehighvalleylive.com)

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Kurt Bresswein may be reached at kbresswein@lehighvalleylive.com. Follow him on Twitter @KurtBresswein. Find lehighvalleylive.com on Facebook.