As many Kootenay residents hit the road for vacation travel, Road Safety at Work is reminding drivers to be mindful of animals on the highway, whether driving for work or pleasure.
According to RSW there are approximately 9,900 wildlife/vehicle collisions each year in this province, and there may be more due to under-reporting.
A male elk can weigh more than 300 kg (700 lbs) and a male moose can weigh up to 700 kg (1,500 lbs). The force of a collision with such a large animal can cause serious injuries when drivers lose control of their vehicle and go off the road or hit another vehicle.
The risk increases at this time of year, RSW says due to seasonal habits based on feeding and reproductive cycles. Wildlife collisions are most common in the hours around dusk and dawn when light conditions are lower.
While you can’t control what an animal may do, there are things you, as a driver, can do to prevent collision.
- Remain alert during peak wildlife hours
- Watch for animal crossing signs
- Slow down when you see an animal on the side of the road. Others may be nearby.
- Pay attention to other drivers. Someone flashing their headlights may be signaling that they’ve seen an animal.
- Plan routes to avoid key wildlife areas during high-risk times or choose safer travel times.
