Driving Tips > Safety Columns
You’re driving in wildlife country
Autumn is the peak time for collisions between vehicles and deer or similar large animals. Many animals are particularly active during the October and November breeding season and when they are moving between their summer and winter ranges.
Wildlife can be found everywhere – even within the city. Be alert for animals on the move, and remember that they often travel in groups. If you see one deer, chances are others are waiting to cross the road.
Danger at dusk, dawn and dark
Collisions with wildlife can be deadly. Drive at a speed from which you will be able to stop within the zone of your headlights. The peak danger times are from sunset to midnight and just after sunrise.
Use your high beams
Drive with your high beams at night, where possible and safe, so that your high beams don’t interfere with other traffic. This way you’ll be able to see wildlife beside the road. Be extra careful when brush and tall grass grow near the road. Enlist passengers to help scan the roadside for deer eye glare.
Avoid hard swerving
If an animal crosses the road, avoid hard swerving as it can cause you to lose control and travel off the road or into oncoming traffic. Brake firmly to avoid or minimize a collision. Once stopped, dim your headlights since bright lights can cause the animal to freeze. Then try blowing your horn to scare the animal away from the road
Always wear a seatbelt
Many people injured in collisions with wildlife weren’t wearing their seatbelts. Collisions with wildlife can be very serious; being properly restrained could save your life.
Don’t approach an injured animal
An injured animal could hurt you or itself in trying to escape. If you hit an animal, get your car off the road, if possible, and call the police.
Crossing signs mark places where animals are especially numerous, but Manitoba’s 250,000 deer, moose and elk are found throughout the province, in farm, forest and even suburban areas.
For more information, watch The 60-Second Driver on CTV, and check out the following on our website:
- Wildlife in Driving Tips
- Wildlife in Other Issues
- You can access the 60-Second Driver video on Wildlife directly
