The Sudbury and Espanola OPP detachments have had an increase in collisions involving wildlife and are reminding drivers that May and June are peak times for these types of crashes.
In the last two weeks, officers have investigated five collisions involving deer and six involving moose.
One of those collisions resulted in a fatality.
According to the OPP, it is important to remember that deer and moose crossing signs are only posted where there are frequent sightings or crossings. Animals can be anywhere and drivers should not lower their level of awareness when in areas without signs, especially at night, which is the peak wildlife crossing time.
Spring and summer wildlife collision safety tips from the OPP:
- Slow down at night, as visibility and reaction times are greatly reduced. If the driver of a vehicle is traveling at 90 km/h and suddenly brakes, they will travel 75 metres during the three seconds it takes to react.
- Use high beams when possible.
- Scan the road continuously, from shoulder to shoulder.
- Drive cautiously through areas with wildlife crossing signs.
- Always slow down when passing wildlife because they may jump into the lane.
- Keep braking after an animal has crossed because there are usually more.
- Never attempt extreme maneuvers to avoid a collision.
- Don’t assume the animal will move. Most animals will freeze when in a vehicle’s headlights.
Wildlife collisions often result in serious injury or even death. Vehicle damage can also be extensive.
“Building public awareness about the very real possibility of encountering wildlife on northern Ontario roadways is an important first step,” said Staff Sergeant Garry Mills, detachment commander, Sudbury and Espanola OPP. “Motorists must take on the personal responsibility for their safety and that of their passengers by remaining alert to the driving hazards when they are behind the wheel.”
