Wildlife Traffic Incidents: Staying Safe

There’s a certain level of awareness and caution that should be utilized while driving in wildlife areas.  Areas that are prone to wildlife traffic are wetland, wooded or agricultural areas.  Roads that cross streams are also areas where wildlife is most likely to be found.

In places of heavier wildlife traffic or in wildlife-vehicle collision hot spots, crossing signs are usually placed. You should always take notice of these crossing signs. If these signs are on a regularly traveled route, avoid yourself from becoming habituated to them. When you’re driving, scan from side to side, as this will allow you to pay attention to both sides of the road. If there are other passengers in the vehicle, ask them to also keep an eye out for any animals.

You should never drive distracted, even more so in wildlife areas.  If you have other passengers with you, try to keep the chat to a minimum. When entering these areas, decrease your speed and increase the distance between you and any other vehicles. If you are traveling at higher speeds, your ability to take action is reduced. Driving at a slower, cautious speed will help you respond in time to avoid colliding with a crossing animal.

If you can, avoid or at least limit your driving in wildlife areas at night. During dusk and dawn hours, wildlife traffic is highest and driver visibility is at its lowest. If you are on a motorcycle, be especially careful when passing through wildlife areas.  Only 2% of car and deer collisions result in human fatalities, but 85% of motorcycle and deer collisions result in human fatalities.

Make sure to keep up with your car’s maintenance and that you’re windshield is clean. Clear your dashboard of any objects that could obstruct your view of the road.  If you live or travel regularly in wildlife areas, you should try investing in brighter headlights.

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