Robert Belley credits a set of metal bars on his vehicle with saving his life after he and his wife collided with a moose near Lanigan in 2024. Reflecting on the incident, Belley remembers seeing the injured moose attempting to cross the highway before the pain set in. Two years later, he continues to struggle with limited use of his left hand, preventing him from engaging in construction work and impacting his income replacement efforts.
Saskatchewan Government Insurance (SGI) is cautioning the public about the increased risk of wildlife collisions during this time of the year, particularly with more moose and deer crossing roads. SGI reports approximately 8,800 wildlife-related crashes annually in the province, resulting in an average of 400 injuries and two fatalities over a five-year period.
Belley emphasizes the seriousness of wildlife collisions, urging drivers to exercise caution and reduce speed on highways. Troy Corbett, the director of traffic safety community engagement at SGI, highlights that fall is a peak period for wildlife accidents, especially involving deer, as they may be more active and unfamiliar with their travel routes during this season.
To prevent accidents, Corbett advises drivers to remain vigilant, reduce speed, watch for animal signs near roads, and use high beams when necessary. In unavoidable collision situations, staying calm, slowing down, and steering away from the animal is recommended.
SGI also suggests steering towards the animal’s point of origin rather than its direction of travel, being cautious during dawn and dusk when visibility may be impaired by glare. Bonnie Dell, executive director of the Wildlife Rescue Society of Saskatchewan, stresses the importance of contacting their organization for assistance in wildlife collision cases involving animals like deer and coyotes, which are commonly affected.
Bernie Borgmann, owner of Hooker’s Towing and Recovery, who has been in the towing business for four decades, notes that a significant percentage of the incidents he responds to are related to wildlife collisions. He describes the impact as akin to hitting a solid wall, with animals often bouncing off vehicles. Borgmann shares experiences ranging from wildlife breaking windshields to multiple animal collisions, highlighting the emotional toll on both drivers and the understanding of the road’s dangers.
Drivers are encouraged to be vigilant and take necessary precautions to mitigate the risks of wildlife collisions on Saskatchewan roads.