- Big game animals are especially active at dawn, dusk and at night, which usually coincides with the lowest visibility. Motorists should drive extra cautious during these times.
- Slow Down. Driving more slowly increases reaction time and reduces the chance of a collision.
- Scan ahead and watch for movement. When driving at night, watch for shining eyes in headlights.
- If you see one animal cross the road expect more to follow.
- Pay extra attention in areas posted with wildlife crossing signs. They are there for good reason.
- Using high beams can help you spot wildlife, but be considerate of other drivers when using them.
- Don't swerve and risk losing control of your vehicle. Try to brake as much as possible and stay on the roadway. The most serious crashes occur when drivers lose control of their vehicles trying to avoid an animal. It is usually safer to strike the animal than another object, such as a tree or another vehicle.
Motorists urged to slow down and lookout for big game
idfg-lfrench
Collisions with big game animals tend to rise in fall and winter, so Idaho Fish and Game encourages motorists to slow down and be extra cautious when traveling, especially where big game animals spend their winter.
"Being extra careful and watchful is the best defense against a wildlife/vehicle collision," said Krista Muller, Fish and Game habitat biologist. "Drivers should slow down and allow a few extra minutes to their travel time for their own safety, and the safety of Idaho's wildlife."
With the deer mating season occurring in November, deer tend to be active all day and are inattentive at times. In addition, many big game animals are migrating to lower elevation winter ranges and crossing highways and roads.
These tips help reduce your chances of a collision: