Robert Belley credits a set of metal bars on his vehicle for saving his life after a harrowing encounter with a moose near Lanigan in 2024. The collision left him with severe injuries, including limited use of his left hand, hindering his ability to work in construction and causing financial strain. Saskatchewan Government Insurance (SGI) is cautioning the public about the heightened risk of wildlife collisions during this season, emphasizing the need for vigilance on the roads.
SGI reports an average of 8,800 wildlife-related accidents annually in the province, resulting in around 400 injuries and two fatalities over a five-year period. Belley stresses the seriousness of these incidents, urging drivers to exercise caution and reduce speed while driving on highways to prevent such accidents.
Troy Corbett, SGI’s director of traffic safety community engagement, highlights the autumn months as a peak period for wildlife collisions, particularly involving deer. He advises drivers to stay alert, slow down, watch for wildlife signs, and use high beams when appropriate to enhance visibility. In unavoidable collision situations, Corbett recommends remaining calm, reducing speed, and steering away from the animal.
Bonnie Dell, executive director of the Wildlife Rescue Society of Saskatchewan, shares her firsthand experiences rescuing injured wildlife, noting that collisions with deer and coyotes are common. She emphasizes the importance of reaching out to their organization for assistance in case of such encounters. Dell recounts a heartwarming story of successfully rehabilitating an adult coyote that was hit by a vehicle, underscoring the value of every individual animal’s life.
Bernie Borgmann, a seasoned towing service owner, reveals that a significant portion of his calls involve wildlife-related incidents, describing the impact as akin to hitting a solid object. He stresses the emotional toll and the realization of the dangers on the road that these accidents bring to both drivers and responders.
As wildlife collisions pose a persistent threat, drivers are urged to remain cautious, especially during dawn and dusk when visibility is reduced. Taking proactive measures and adopting defensive driving practices can help mitigate the risks associated with encounters with wildlife on the roads.
