Drivers need to pay more attention during their commutes in the spring and summer months. Animals are more attracted to the highways this time of year, which causes a safety hazard.
Drivers need to pay more attention during their commutes in the spring and summer months. Animals are more attracted to the highways this time of year, which causes a safety hazard.
“On average five deer are hit in Cochrane and the surrounding area in the spring and summer months, ” said Sgt. Jeff Campbell with the Cochrane RCMP.
The animals are attracted to the highways to lick the salt left over from the winter months, and as the deer are easily spooked, they often dart out on to the road in front of traffic, Campbell explained.
As commuters are often driving during dusk hours it can also affect visibility on the road.
Cochrane RCMP members suggest drivers do not go over the speed limit, to allow for adequate stopping time if an animal runs on to the road, and to not drive while distracted.
Alberta Fish & Wildlife also forwarded safety tips to help avoid collisions with wildlife:
- Use high beam lights to better illuminate the edges of the road ahead
- Look for the reflection of your headlights in eyes of animals nearby
- Slow down, flash your lights, and use your horn to make the animal move out of your path
- If a collision is unavoidable, let up on the brakes at the last moment to raise the front end of the car, which lowers when braking. This will reduce the chances of the animal going through the windshield.
- Do not swerve
- And always buckle up
The most dangerous animal on the road is moose, said Brendan Cox, public affairs officer for Alberta Fish and Wildlife.
Moose are more difficult to see at night due to their darker colour coats and because their eyes are higher than most headlight beams, so there is no reflective eye shine to alert drivers.
“The bottom line is drivers must do their best to stay alert and look for anything out of the ordinary, ” Cox said.
