Winnipeg police and Manitoba Public Insurance have launched a speed-enforcement campaign aimed at reducing the number of vehicle collisions with deer.
So-called “hot spot” zones will be setup in 12 different locations today, featuring highly visible message boards. The boards will warn motorists to slow down in areas where deer are prevalent.
Speeds will be monitored in these areas, including several directions within the corridors of Roblin Boulevard and Wilkes Avenue from Shaftesbury Boulevard to the Perimeter Highway in southwest Winnipeg.
There are about 410 deer-vehicle collisions in Winnipeg each year, which is more than any other municipality in Manitoba. The worst spots in Winnipeg for these types of collisions are on Wilkes and Roblin. Provincially, there are about 6,500 deer/vehicle collisions annually.
Residents living in southwest Winnipeg, including Headingley, will receive a wildlife notice in the mail with tips on how to avoid hitting a deer.
Those tips include:
- Be aware of your surroundings. Encourage passengers to help you spot deer on the road.
- Slow down
- Stay in control. If you see large wildlife on the road, brake firmly. Do not swerve suddenly as this could lead to a worse collision.
- Be proactive. To scare the animal off the road, dim your headlights and sound the horn.
- If a collision is unavoidable, angle your vehicle to skim the animal and avoid a direct head-on hit.
