Robert Belley credits his life to the metal bars on his truck after a near-fatal collision with a moose near Lanigan in 2024. The impact left him with severe injuries, including limited use of his left hand, hindering his ability to work in construction and impacting his income. Saskatchewan Government Insurance (SGI) is cautioning the public about the increased risk of wildlife collisions during this time of the year, particularly with more moose and deer crossing roads.
SGI reports an annual average of 8,800 wildlife-related collisions in the province, resulting in around 400 injuries and two fatalities over five years. Belley emphasizes the seriousness of these incidents and urges drivers to exercise caution on highways to prevent potential harm.
Troy Corbett, SGI’s director of traffic safety community engagement, highlights the heightened risk of wildlife collisions during the fall season, particularly involving deer. He advises drivers to be vigilant, reduce speed, watch for animal signs near roads, and use high beams when necessary to avoid accidents. In unavoidable situations, Corbett recommends staying calm, slowing down, and steering away from the animal.
SGI also suggests steering towards where the animal came from rather than its direction and exercising extra caution during dawn and dusk when visibility may be compromised. Bonnie Dell, executive director of the Wildlife Rescue Society of Saskatchewan, stresses the importance of contacting their organization for assistance in wildlife collision cases involving animals like deer and coyotes.
Bernie Borgmann, the owner of Hooker’s Towing and Recovery, shares his experience of responding to wildlife collision incidents, estimating that a significant portion of his calls involve animals. He describes the impact as akin to hitting a solid object and notes the various challenges encountered during such incidents. Borgmann emphasizes the importance of acknowledging the dangers posed by wildlife collisions and urges drivers to remain cautious on the roads.