September 22, 2010

Wandering deer caused two-vehicle crash with 9 injured: motorists encouraged to be extra cautious

A recent multiple injury crash near Brandon has heightened the importance of Manitoba motorists being on the lookout for wandering deer on or near roadways. A total of nine people were injured in a two-vehicle crash sparked by a wandering deer.

Last year  in Manitoba more than 300 people were injured in a wildlife-related collision, according to Manitoba Public Insurance claims data. Another three people were killed between the years 2005 and ’09. Many of these collisions involved wandering deer.

While September has a high frequency of wildlife-related collisions ─ an average of 1,000 ─ the two highest months have yet to arrive: October and November with 1,300 and 1,600, respectively.

“Unfortunately deer find themselves on roadways and the outcome of a crash can result in very serious injuries to everyone in the vehicle,” said Clif Eden, Manager of Road Safety with Manitoba Public Insurance.

“Our data reports that 51 per cent of wildlife collisions are more common during the evening hours (6 p.m. to midnight),” said Eden. “But many other collisions are taking place during dusk and dawn hours.”

More than $30 million is paid out in wildlife collisions annually by Manitoba Public Insurance. The average cost of an injury claim to occupants in the vehicle was nearly $15,000.

Motorists are encouraged to do the following:

• Slow down when you see wildlife crossing signs
• Be especially aware during dusk and dawn hours
• Scan the roadside for animals -- get your passengers to help watch for the reflection of headlights in the eyes of a deer, or a dark silhouette.
• Dim your headlights—your brights may cause a deer to freeze on the road slow down and be prepared to stop
• Avoid hard swerving—you may lose control. Brake firmly to reduce the impact between the animal and your vehicle.
• Move your vehicle off the road immediately after hitting an animal. Turn on emergency lights.

“We’re heading into a period where wildlife collisions take a dramatic increase,” said Eden. “If a motorist hits an animal, they should immediately pull off to a safe area and activate their emergency signals.”

―30―