How to Drive Safely Around Wildlife
Driving tips for avoiding collisions with animals
By: Paula Kozbial / 31.10.2011
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Driving tips for avoiding collisions with
animals
Collisions between cars and wild animals can result in serious
vehicle damage, personal injury or even death. In Ontario alone,
one out of every 17 motor-vehicle collisions involves wildlife, and
that number is on the rise due to climate change, human
encroachment and an increase in some wildlife populations. Tosh
Gierek, Wildlife Management Coordinator with the Ontario Ministry of
Natural Resources says "While animal behaviour can be
unpredictable, there are some precautions you can take while
driving to help you steer clear of wildlife on the road."
Watch for wildlife-warning road signs
These signs are posted where a history of wildlife collisions has
occurred so reduce your speed.
Exercise extra caution at dusk and dawn
Peak collision times are 5 a.m. to 7 a.m. and 5 p.m. to 11 p.m.,
when deer and moose are most active. "They stay relatively low-key
during the day, sleep at night and move to and from their night
time bedding areas," Gierek explains.
Be mindful of the fall mating and migration
season
Many animals look for mates in the autumn, thus they tend to travel
and cross roads more frequently. Seasonal migration also means more
critters are on the move.
Reduce speed and stay alert
If you spot wildlife while you're driving, slow down and pass
carefully as precaution. As most animals travel in groups, driving
slowly will give you the chance to stop in case other animals
decide to follow. "Wildlife collisions can be unpredictable and
often occur with little warning. Reducing speed and paying full
attention while driving is the best way to stay safe," Gierek
says.
Brake for moose
These animals may escape the path of a vehicle by running along the
road-a serious hazard for other drivers. If you encounter a moose
while driving, British Columbia's Ministry of Transportation and
Infrastructure suggests pulling over to the curb, if safe to do so,
or slowing down to a very low speed until the animal leaves the
road.
Stay in control
If wildlife is crossing or standing on the road, brake firmly. Do
not assume an animal will move out of the way. Also, never swerve
suddenly as this could cause your vehicle to veer out of control or
head into oncoming traffic.