It's wild on the highways!

North Bay OPP
News Release

********************

North Bay OPP is cautioning motorists on the increased incidents of wildlife collisions on area highways. Collisions with wild animals can result in serious vehicle damage, personal injury or even death. In 2008, North Bay OPP Detachments cluster responded to 222 motor vehicle collisions involving wildlife and to date in 2009, a total of 101.

Wild animals are unpredictable at all times. However, there are two peak times when the risk of a collision is highest: May and June when animals seek road salt in ditches and try to escape biting insects and during the fall mating and migration seasons.
Watch

• Scan the road ahead from shoulder to shoulder. When you see wildlife beside the road, slow down and pass carefully as they may suddenly bolt onto the road.

• Watch for the yellow wildlife warning signs that indicate an area of increased risk. Slow down when travelling through these areas.

• Use high beams at night where possible and watch for glowing eyes of animals
Steer

• Stay in control. Watch your speed and take extra precautions when driving at night as visibility is greatly reduced. Slowing down will give you that extra second to respond.

• Never swerve suddenly. This could cause your vehicle to go out of control or head into oncoming traffic.
Brake

• Brake firmly if an animal is standing on, or crossing, the road. Never assume the animal will move out of your way.
Stop

• Stop as safely as possible if a wild animal is crossing the road. Remember, if one animal crosses the road, others may follow.

If possible, avoid driving during dusk or dawn when most wildlife collisions occur. Swerving to avoid hitting a wild animal may result in a more serious collision. If hitting a wild animal is unavoidable, remember to stay in control ... Watch, Steer, Brake and Stop.

********************