Preventing Wildlife Collisions

Preventing Wildlife Collisions: How Can Drivers Reduce the Chances of a Wildlife/Vehicle Collision?

- Matt Komac, Assistant Director - PC Pool Operations, and Annette Satterly, Risk Management Associate

According to the Montana Department of Transportation, Montana is ranked second in the nation among states where you are most likely to have a collision with wildlife.  MSGIA’s claims data supports that statement, and in fact, we are seeing an increase in both the number and cost of these claims.  When comparing the last two policy periods to the prior, we have seen an 86% increase in the number of vehicle/animal auto comprehensive claims, and the cost to repair those vehicles involved has increased 71% to an average of $9,148 per claim. 

While animals can and will be seen along Montana roadways year-round, you have a much higher likelihood of collisions during fall and winter.  Upon review of our claims data, 52% of animal strikes occurred between the months of September and November when ungulates were more active due to the rut/mating season.  That is followed up by the months of December through March as the rut winds down and wildlife begin congregating near the roadways for food and ease of travel.  With this in mind, below are some tips to help you avoid a vehicle collision with an animal.     

Reduce Speed

  • Slowing down is one of the most effective tools to avoid animal collisions due to your increased reaction time.  This is especially important during low light conditions and bad weather.     
  • Wildlife are more active from dusk to dawn, increasing your odds of an encounter and reducing your visibility and reaction time.  You should drive a minimum of 5 to 10mph slower during low light conditions.    

Watch for the Signs

  • A wildlife warning sign is a yellow diamond-shaped sign that advises drivers to be cautious.
  • An animal hit can happen anywhere in Montana, but the DOT places these signs in areas with higher than normal wildlife activity.  

Drive Defensively

  • Drivers and passengers should actively watch for:
    • Wildlife on the road, in the ditch, on the shoulder, and in the right of way.
    • Movement on or alongside the road.
    • Shining eyes; your headlights will reflect off the animal’s eyes.
    • Flickering of headlights or taillights by other drivers may indicate an animal is crossing.
  • If you see one animal, there are likely more nearby, so slow down and proceed with caution. 
  • If you see an animal, firmly apply the brakes while maintaining control of your vehicle.   
  • Clean your windshield, inside and out. Check and replace windshield wiper blades as needed.
  • Keep headlights properly aligned to maximize your field of view without impacting other drivers.
  • Use high beams for better visibility when there is no oncoming traffic.  

If you are involved in a Collision

  • Pull over, park safely, engage your hazard lights, and check for injuries.
  • If the animal is alive, do not approach it. Call 911.
  • Report the collision to your insurance carrier. If driving a school vehicle, MSGIA has a mobile app to help simplify the claim reporting process, and those instructions can be found on the back of the proof of insurance card.

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