Robert Belley credits a set of metal bars on his truck with saving his life after a collision with a moose near Lanigan in 2024. Despite the protective bars, he still suffered severe injuries, including limited mobility in his left hand, preventing him from working in construction and causing financial strain due to lost income.
Saskatchewan Government Insurance (SGI) is raising awareness about the risks of wildlife collisions, particularly during this time of year when more moose and deer are crossing roads. SGI reports around 8,800 wildlife-related accidents annually in the province, resulting in an average of 400 injuries and two fatalities over five years.
Belley emphasizes the seriousness of wildlife collisions, urging drivers to exercise caution on highways to avoid life-altering consequences. Troy Corbett from SGI advises drivers to be vigilant during the fall season, as wildlife, especially deer, may be more active and unfamiliar with their travel routes.
To prevent accidents, Corbett recommends driving cautiously, watching for animal signs, using high beams when necessary, and remaining calm if a collision is unavoidable. SGI also suggests steering towards where the animal came from rather than its current path and being extra cautious during dawn and dusk when visibility is reduced.
Bonnie Dell, the executive director of the Wildlife Rescue Society of Saskatchewan, emphasizes the value of each animal affected by collisions. She encourages individuals to contact their organization for assistance in rescuing injured wildlife, particularly deer and coyotes, which are most frequently involved in such incidents.
Bernie Borgmann, the owner of Hooker’s Towing and Recovery, shares his experience of responding to wildlife collision scenes, estimating that 10 to 20 percent of his calls involve such incidents. He describes the impact of hitting an animal as akin to hitting a solid object and notes the emotional toll it takes on drivers who are confronted with the consequences of these accidents.
As wildlife collisions pose risks to both human lives and animals, drivers are urged to remain cautious, especially during high-risk periods, to mitigate the impact of such incidents on both the community and the environment.