November 4, 2008

November worst month for collisions with wildlife: Manitoba Public Insurance

For the last five years November has been the worst month for collisions with wildlife in Manitoba, according to Manitoba Public Insurance claims data.

Between 2003-07, an average of 1,600 collisions were reported to the public auto insurer during this month. In total, about 10,000 collisions with wildlife are reported yearly to Manitoba Public Insurance.

“Deer are in rutting season during October and November,” said Clif Eden, Manager of Road Safety and Programming with Manitoba Public Insurance. “The animals are highly mobile at this time, chasing after mates and moving to seasonal feeding grounds in large numbers. Motorists should be very cautious during the dusk and dawn hours in particular.”

Manitoba has a number of reported hotspots for deer/vehicle collisions, most notably:

• Winnipeg (nearly 500 claims reported last year)
• Brandon-Westman region
• Steinbach region
• Birds Hill (Hwy 59)
• Lac du Bonnet/Seven Sister areas

Deer wandering onto the roadway can be very dangerous for motorists. This year one person was killed and three others injured after a vehicle left its lane to avoid hitting a deer.

“When traveling in heavily wooded areas, or regions known to have many deer, motorists would be well advised to slow down and scan the ditches for animals,” said Eden. “Animals typically move in small groups. If you see one animal crossing, chances are you’ll see another one trailing.”

Motorists should also avoid swerving when coming upon a deer on the road. Drivers should apply the brakes and remain in their lane.

“It’s a natural instinct to swerve, but doing so can put you and other motorists in a potentially fatal situation,” said Eden.

Last year nearly 300 people were injured in collisions involving wildlife, according to Manitoba Public Insurance claims data.

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