Are you like me and still horrifically surprised when the sun sets at 5 p.m.? This time of year brings darker commutes and a higher risk of vehicle and wildlife collisions. Here’s how you can stay safe on the road.
Why You Should Be Extra Cautious This Time of Year
Safe driving is important all year long but especially in the fall when deer migration and mating activity peak and low-light conditions make it harder for drivers to see when animals are crossing the road. So far, in 2024, over 7,800 wildlife-vehicle collisions were reported in Utah.
How To Avoid Collisions
- Stay alert at dawn and dusk, when animals are most active, and observe wildlife crossing signs.
- Pay attention to both sides of the road for any movement.
- Put down the phone; don’t drive distracted.
- Use your high-beams when necessary, and look out for an animal’s eye glimmer, which can be spotted at a distance.
If You Encounter Wildlife
- Slow down if you see an animal near the road, since animals often travel in packs.
- Do not swerve for deer or other small animals on the road. Stay in your lane and brake gently.
- If a group of animals are on the road, don’t drive through them. Honk your horn and flash your lights to encourage them to move.
What To Do in the Case of a Collision
- Turn on your hazard lights and pull over if possible.
- Never approach an injured animal.
- Call the authorities if the animal is on the road and it poses a risk to other drivers.
- Use the Utah Roadkill Reporter app to log details.
