(Buck and doe deer image via Shutterstock)
WINNIPEG — The eastern part of the province remains the top spot for vehicle collisions involving deer.
Data released Monday by Manitoba Public Insurance show the communities of Steinbach, Lac du Bonnet, Anola, Birds Hill Park area and Falcon Lake experienced an average of 1,700 collisions yearly, based on statistics collected from 2013 to 2017.
“At this time of year in particular, there’s an increased likelihood of encountering these animals when travelling through these zones. Awareness is one key to preventing a collision,” said Satvir Jatana, vice-president responsible for communications with MPI.
Deer-related collisions in Winnipeg dropped to No. 6 on the list. A total of 14 locations have been identified within Winnipeg this year.
MPI says warning signs alerting motorists to wildlife in the area will be placed in Riding Mountain National Park and encouraging safe speeds, particularly between dusk and dawn.
On average, about 400 people are injured in wildlife-related collisions yearly. Over the last 10 years, seven people in Manitoba have been killed in crashes caused by an animal on a road.
Manitoba’s Top 5 vehicle-deer collision regions:
- Eastman Region – 1,700 yearly collisions
- Westman – 1,585 yearly collisions
- Interlake – 1,200 yearly collisions
- Pembina Valley – 665 yearly collisions
- Central Plains – 640 yearly collisions
