Road Safety at Work urges drivers to look out for wildlife

Road Safety at Work is reminding drivers to be on the lookout for four-legged pedestrians this spring.

According to Road Safety at Work, May and June are the highest risk months for wildlife collisions on BC Roads, due to changing behaviour by drivers and animals.

ICBC reports an average of more than 12,000 animal-related incidents, and 952 people injured annually over the last five years. That includes 3,171 in North Central BC.

Deer account for the most collisions in May, while elk account for the most in June.

“Deer and elk are more active at dawn and dusk, crossing roads unpredictably as they search for food, move to new habitat, or care for young,” said Road Safety at Work Spokesperson Trace Acres.

“Roads look clearer and the weather is better so drivers may not be as alert to the hazards. At the same time, wildlife activity is peaking. And that combination raises the risk of collisions.”

Road Safety at Work offered the following tips to prevent collisions with wildlife:

• Wear their seatbelt
• Slow down and be alert in areas marked with wildlife warning signs and near parks, forested areas, and waterways
• Scan roadsides for wildlife continuously, especially in low-light conditions
• Be prepared for multiple animals, not just one
• Avoid swerving suddenly, which can lead to losing control of the vehicle

If you do collide with wildlife, you should focus on protecting people first, then dealing with the scene and reporting the incident:

• Check yourself and passengers for injuries. Call 911 if anyone is injured.
• Turn on your vehicle’s hazard lights. Stay well off the road if you have to get out of the vehicle.
• Don’t approach an injured animal. Call the BC Conservation Officer Service at 1-877-952-7277. If it’s dead, contact the road maintenance contractor through DriveBC.ca’s “Report a Highway Problem” information.
• Contact your employer if you’re driving for work, and follow their instructions.

For employers, Road Safety at Work recommends:

• Warn drivers about the hazards of wildlife on the road
• Plan routes and schedules to limit driving at high-risk times when possible
• Include wildlife collision prevention in their road safety plans
• Develop procedures and educate drivers about what to do if they’re in a collision with wildlife