Robert Belley credits the metal bars on his truck with saving his life following a collision with a moose near Lanigan in 2024. Despite the accident, Belley continues to suffer from 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, particularly with more moose and deer crossing roads.
SGI reports that the province sees around 8,800 wildlife-related collisions annually, leading to an average of 400 injuries and two fatalities over a five-year period. Belley emphasizes the seriousness of these incidents, urging people to exercise caution on highways to avoid severe injuries or fatalities.
Troy Corbett, SGI’s director of traffic safety community engagement, notes that fall is a peak period for wildlife collisions, especially involving deer. To prevent accidents, Corbett advises drivers to be vigilant for wildlife activity, reduce speed, watch for animal signs near roads, and use high beams when necessary.
In case of an unavoidable collision, Corbett recommends staying calm, slowing down, and steering away from the animal. SGI also suggests steering toward the animal’s point of origin rather than its destination and exercising extra caution during dawn and dusk when visibility is reduced.
Bonnie Dell, executive director of the Wildlife Rescue Society of Saskatchewan, stresses the importance of reaching out to their organization for assistance in wildlife-related incidents. Dell recounts rescuing an adult coyote hit by a vehicle outside Regina, highlighting the emotional toll on both drivers and animals involved in such accidents.
Bernie Borgmann, owner of Hooker’s Towing and Recovery, shares his experience of responding to wildlife collisions, emphasizing the impact on vehicles and the emotional toll on individuals involved in these incidents. Despite the challenges, Borgmann underscores the importance of acknowledging the dangers of wildlife encounters on roadways.