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BC Motorists Advised to Be Alert for Wildlife on Highways - Yearly Cause of Over 11,500 Collisions

As temperatures rise, an increasing number of British Columbia residents are venturing into the wilderness for outdoor recreation, and they're not alone. Numerous wildlife species are also making their way onto congested mountain roads.

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As the temperature rises, an increasing number of British Columbia residents venture outdoors for...
As the temperature rises, an increasing number of British Columbia residents venture outdoors for some fresh air and nature – though they're not alone on those winding mountain highways.

BC Motorists Advised to Be Alert for Wildlife on Highways - Yearly Cause of Over 11,500 Collisions

Get Ready for the Animal Migration Bonanza in British Columbia!

Calling all adventure seekers and road trippers! With the warm sun shining down, it's time to hit the roads of British Columbia to explore nature's wonders - but beware, you're not alone on the highways! May marks the peak season for deer crossings, according to Road Safety at Work, an injury-reduction initiative of WorkSafeBC.

Program director Trace Acres stressed the importance of driving caution in these areas, reminding us that "even a small deer can cause a serious crash, and it often happens before the driver has time to react."

Fact: Between 2019 and 2023, an average of 11,503 crashes involving wildlife were reported annually, causing an average of 989 injuries per year. In 2023 alone, there were 12,825 wildlife crashes with 1,070 injuries across the province.

But dare not leave your fears at the door just yet! After deer season in May, it's time for moose to take center stage. June and July see an increase in moose crossings, so be prepared for even more furry companions on the go.

Now, where can you expect to encounter these critters on your B.C. adventure? High-risk areas for deer and moose crossings include highways and roads linking rural and suburban areas, especially near green belts, parks, fields, golf courses, or other natural feeding areas.

Remember, it's not just dawn and dusk when you need to keep your eyes peeled – these critters are known for being active throughout the day, so stay alert during all hours of your journey.

So, what can you do to protect yourself and your passengers? Follow these tips from Road Safety at Work to stay safe during peak season:

  1. Stay Alert: Keep focused on the road.
  2. Slow Down: Reduce your speed, especially during high-risk hours.
  3. Be Prepared: Expect the unexpected and react accordingly.
  4. Look for Signs: Watch out for posted wildlife signs.
  5. Scan Roadsides: Keep your eyes peeled for any movement along the road.
  6. Avoid Swerving: If you spot an animal on the road, control your vehicle carefully instead of swerving, as this can lead to more serious crashes.

By following these tips, you can safely share the road with B.C.'s wildlife and continue enjoying all that nature has to offer!

Wondering about other high-risk areas for deer and moose crossings? Check out these popular routes in British Columbia:

  • Highway 1 (Trans-Canada Highway): Frequent deer and elk sightings between Kamloops and Revelstoke.
  • Highway 97 (Alaska Highway): Areas surrounding Dawson Creek and Chetwynd with common moose sightings.
  • Highway 16 (Yellowhead Highway): Prone to deer and moose crossings from Prince George to Prince Rupert.
  • Vancouver Island Highways: Highways such as Highway 4 and Highway 19 with frequent deer and black bear sightings.
  1. Prepare for an influx of wildlife sightings on British Columbia's highways in the coming months, starting with deer season in May.
  2. Be mindful of the increased risk of moose crossings in June and July after the conclusion of deer season.
  3. Science data from Road Safety at Work reveals an average of 11,503 wildlife-related crashes annually between 2019 and 2023, resulting in an average of 989 injuries each year.
  4. To minimize the risk of crashes involving wildlife, pay attention to posted signs, keep your eyes open for movements on the roadside, and follow safety tips such as staying alert, slowing down, being prepared, and avoiding swerving.
  5. Some of the high-risk areas for deer and moose crossings include highways and roads linking rural and suburban areas, especially near green belts, parks, fields, golf courses, or other natural feeding areas.
  6. Beyond deer and moose, other wildlife sightings include elk on Highway 1 (Trans-Canada Highway) between Kamloops and Revelstoke, moose on Highway 97 (Alaska Highway) surrounding Dawson Creek and Chetwynd, and deer and black bears on Vancouver Island highways like Highway 4 and Highway 19.

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