With the return to daylight saving time, Colorado Parks and Wildlife reminds Colorado motorists of the higher risk of being involved in a wildlife-related accident.
According to the Colorado Department of Transportation, November sees more car accidents involving wildlife than any other month.
“It’s going to be obviously most dangerous at dusk and dawn,” said Colorado Parks and Wildlife District Wildlife Manager Cody Wigner. “This time of year the days are getting shorter and people are commuting to and from work at those times.”
Visibility is poor when many of our big game animals are most active. Deer are extremely vulnerable to being struck this time of year because this is their peak mating season. They are more mobile, easily distracted and more likely to be crossing roadways.
According to transportation studies, motor vehicle accidents involving wildlife rank as the third leading cause for crashes behind speeding and inattentive driving. These statistics include severe property damage, injuries and fatalities.
While some collisions may be unavoidable, motorists can reduce the likelihood of an accident by taking the following precautions:
Slow down. Driving more slowly increases reaction time and reduces the chance of a collision.
Stay alert at dusk and dawn. This is when many of Colorado’s wildlife are the most active and are likely to be crossing roadways.
Scan ahead and watch for movement along roadsides. When driving at night, watch for shining eyes in headlights. Look and be prepared for more than one animal.
Obey traffic signs and watch for warning signs.
Regional high-risk area
Wildlife-related accidents can happen anywhere in Colorado; however, drivers should be especially cautious when traveling through forests and agricultural land, as well as the following “high-risk” areas:
U.S. Highway 160 (Durango to Pagosa Springs and Durango to Mancos)
Highway 550 (north of Durango and from Montrose to Ouray)
Drivers involved in a wildlife/vehicle collision should report the accident to the Colorado State Patrol by calling *CSP (star key and 277).