By Brian Schultz
If you live in southeast Manitoba, you have a greater likelihood hood of running into wildlife while behind the wheel.
According to Manitoba Public Insurance, there are about 1,600 collisions annually in the Eastman region, which includes Steinbach, Lac du Bonnet, Anola, Birds Hill Park area and Falcon Lake.
“Motorists are encouraged to exercise extra care and caution during October and November — the two worst months for vehicle-deer collisions,” said Ward Keith with MPI.
“Last year, 300 Manitobans were injured in wildlife-related collisions. Over the last 10 years, eight people in Manitoba have been killed in crashes caused by an animal on a road.”
Top 5 vehicle-deer collision regions:
- Eastman Region – 1,540 yearly collisions
- Westman – 1,400 yearly collisions
- Interlake – 1,060 yearly collisions
- City of Winnipeg – 610 yearly collisions
- Pembina Valley – 600 yearly collisions
Tips to help keep you safe:
- Slow down when you see wildlife crossing signs.
- Animals are normally more active at dawn, dusk and at night.
- Be especially alert where brush and tall grass grow near the road.
- Scan the road and roadside for animals — get your passengers to help.
- Watch for the reflection of headlights in the eyes of a deer, or a dark silhouette.
- Do not swerve if an animal does cross in front of your vehicle — brake firmly to reduce the impact between an animal and your vehicle.
