Was that Rudolph? Seeing the reflection of two eyes from an animal on the road in front of you can send a wave of adrenaline and fear through even the most experienced drivers, so the Colorado State Patrol (CSP) would like to assist by providing some general recommendations to lower the chance of a wildlife collision.
“Last December troopers investigated 431 wildlife crashes around the state,” warned Col. Matthew C. Packard, chief of the CSP.
The most common time for crashes this time of year is between 3 and 7 p.m. or 5 and 9 a.m.
Two of the most essential things a motorist can do are to drive the speed limit and use their high beams when not around other motorists in rural areas or neighborhoods adjacent to open space areas. Increase your chances of seeing wildlife crossing up ahead or on the side of the road by staying alert. You can give yourself the time to adjust your speed or stop if no one is behind you.
“The worst choice you can make is to swerve outside your lane or slam on your brakes with vehicles behind you,” explained Packard. “People can end up in serious crashes when they let their emotions take over to save Rudolph or his friends.”
Be prepared to make a tough decision when encountering animals. If you have time and space, you can flash your lights and slow down in a straight line, coming to a stop. If you have very little time and distance and no one is behind you, you can brake hard in a straight line. However, if you don’t have time and there is traffic behind you, the right choice is to drive through, keeping in the lane, but with a slight angle toward the butt of the animal only if by the white side lane line. Never swerve or jerk the wheel.
Tips for avoiding a wildlife crash
• Don’t exceed the speed limit.
• Scan roads (or shoulders) for movement and eye shine.
• Use bright lights at night when safe and flash your lights at oncoming cars to warn of wildlife on the road.
• If you have time and space behind you, stop for wildlife on the road/use hazard lights.
• Be aware of groups: Remember that if you see one animal, there may be others nearby.
Drivers should be aware that some seasons and times are worse than others for wildlife activity. While no one wants to harm an animal, causing a more serious crash with oncoming traffic or vehicles behind you can lead to long-term human injury and death.
If you are involved in a crash with an animal, the CSP wants you to call 9-1-1 just as you would in any other emergency.
In addition, if you witness wildlife in distress from possibly being struck on or near the side of the road, call *CSP for the proper resource to be notified and sent to the scene.
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