Robert Belley credits a set of metal bars on his vehicle with saving his life during a collision with a moose near Lanigan in 2024. He vividly recalls the moment of impact when the moose was still alive before the pain set in, leaving him with lasting injuries, including limited use of his left hand, hindering his ability to work in construction and impacting his income. Saskatchewan Government Insurance (SGI) is cautioning the public about the increased risk of wildlife collisions during this time of year, especially involving moose and deer crossing roads.
SGI reports approximately 8,800 wildlife-related collisions in the province each year, resulting in an average of 400 injuries and two fatalities over a five-year period. Belley emphasizes the seriousness of these incidents, urging people to be more vigilant and reduce speed on highways to prevent accidents.
Troy Corbett, the director of traffic safety community engagement at SGI, highlights that fall is a peak season for wildlife collisions, particularly with deer, as they may be more active and unfamiliar with their travel routes. He advises drivers to exercise caution, slow down, watch for animal signs near roads, and use high beams when necessary to reduce risks.
In addition, SGI recommends steering towards the animal’s original position rather than its current path and exercising extra caution during dawn and dusk when visibility may be impaired by glare. Bonnie Dell, the executive director of the Wildlife Rescue Society of Saskatchewan, stresses the value of every individual animal and the emotional toll on drivers involved in collisions, especially with deer and coyotes.
Bernie Borgmann, the owner of Hooker’s Towing and Recovery, notes that a significant portion of his towing incidents involve wildlife collisions, likening the impact to hitting a solid wall. He emphasizes the physical and emotional challenges faced by individuals involved in such accidents and the need for heightened awareness on the roads.