Canada is well known for its beautiful landscapes and wildlife. Although many appreciate the beauty that the country has to offer, it can turn dangerous quickly when animals begin stepping onto busy roads. Wildlife such as deer, moose, elk, bears, and wolves can cause major damage to your vehicle if one crosses in front of you at the wrong time. Be vigilant and take precautions to prevent this from happening to you.
Deer
Approximately 80% of all wildlife-vehicle collisions that occur in Canada involve deer. These types of accidents occur to roughly 60,000 drivers and result in nearly $400 million in related expenses.
Deer collisions are considerably higher than all other animal collision types because an overabundant deer population exists. This overabundance has been caused by a decrease in wolves and cougars, which are deer predators.
To decrease the likelihood of an accident occurring, recognize that deer typically travel in packs and are rarely alone. Slow your vehicle and stay on course if you spot one. While your first reaction might be to swerve, this might result in a larger accident if you lose control of your vehicle.
Moose
While moose collisions are not as common as deer collisions, they have the potential to cause significantly more damage due to the increased size of the animal. These accidents are also known for causing bodily injuries that have left drivers hospitalized for days.
Moose are well known to travel along roads to avoid deep snow, to feed on vegetation, and to avoid insects that often accumulate in deep brush. These animals are very unpredictable and often will bolt in front of vehicles at a moment's notice.
The best way to help prevent moose collisions is to drive defensively. Slow down when driving at night, scan both sides of the road, and keep alert for any movement at all times.
Elk
Car accidents involving elk are just as dangerous as those that involve moose. Elk are smaller and more slender, but can run approximately 15 kilometres per hour faster than their counterparts. This makes elk more dangerous to drivers that cannot stop quickly. Be sure to drive even slower in areas that have a high elk population.
Bears
Although wildlife crossings have decreased the number of bear collisions in recent years, drivers still have to be hypersensitive where bear crossing signs are present. Bears seek vegetation that grows along roadsides and garbage that people throw out of their vehicles. Motorists should always be more cautious when driving at dawn or dusk, which is when bears are more active.
Wolves
Close to 60,000 wolves inhabit Canada, which makes it the second largest wolf-populated country in the world. This makes Canadians more vulnerable to wolf collisions than individuals in other countries.
Wolves are very smart animals that travel on or along roads in packs. They can be found near roads because travel is easier and food can easily be found in the form of road kill.
To prevent yourself from hitting a wolf, remember to use your headlights when visibility is low and drive with caution alongside roads that cut through forests. Wolves typically can be found in densely wooded areas.
Staying Safe
If your vehicle is not in good working condition, your chances of hitting an animal will increase. Ensure that you are driving a car that is safe and that is right for you by applying online with Canada Auto Loan. Our finance experts will work to give you the best opportunity to purchase a new or used car, regardless of your credit.