Robert Belley credits the metal bars on his truck for saving his life after a collision with a moose near Lanigan in 2024. Recounting the incident, Belley vividly remembers the moose still alive after the impact before the pain set in, causing lasting damage to his left hand. This injury has prevented him from pursuing his construction work and has posed challenges in replacing his lost income.
Saskatchewan Government Insurance (SGI) is cautioning the public about the increased risk of wildlife collisions during this time of year when more moose and deer are crossing roads. Approximately 8,800 wildlife-related collisions are reported in the province annually, resulting in an average of 400 injuries and two fatalities over a five-year period.
Belley emphasizes the seriousness of these accidents, urging people to be more cautious on highways as wildlife collisions can have severe consequences, including permanent injuries and even death. Troy Corbett, the director of traffic safety community engagement at SGI, notes that fall is a peak time for wildlife collisions, particularly involving deer, which may be more active and unfamiliar with their travel routes during this season.
To avoid accidents, Corbett advises drivers to exercise caution, reduce speed, watch for signs of animals near roads, and use high beams when necessary. In the event of an unavoidable collision, staying calm, slowing down, and steering away from the animal are recommended.
SGI also suggests steering towards the animal’s point of origin rather than its intended direction and exercising extra caution during dawn and dusk when visibility may be reduced due to glare.
Bonnie Dell, executive director of the Wildlife Rescue Society of Saskatchewan, emphasizes the value of each individual animal involved in collisions, highlighting the emotional impact on both those who hit the animals and those involved in rescue efforts. Dell encourages individuals to contact their organization if they encounter wildlife collisions and are unsure of the next steps to take.
Bernie Borgmann, owner of Hooker’s Towing and Recovery, with 40 years of experience in towing vehicles, shares that a significant percentage of his callouts involve wildlife collisions, likening the impact to hitting a wall. He notes the various scenarios he has encountered, from animals crashing through windshields to multiple animal collisions, emphasizing the traumatic nature of these incidents.
In conclusion, as wildlife collisions continue to pose risks to both humans and animals, it is crucial for drivers to exercise vigilance, follow safety precautions, and seek assistance from relevant organizations when needed.