Robert Belley credits a set of metal bars on his truck for saving his life after colliding with a moose near Lanigan in 2024. Despite the incident, the aftermath left him with severe injuries, particularly affecting his left hand, hindering his ability to work in construction and impacting his income replacement. Saskatchewan Government Insurance (SGI) cautions the public about the heightened risk of wildlife collisions during this time of year when more moose and deer are on the move.
According to SGI, approximately 8,800 wildlife-related accidents are reported annually in the province, resulting in an average of 400 injuries and two fatalities over a five-year period. Belley emphasizes the seriousness of these accidents, urging drivers to exercise caution on the highways to avoid life-altering consequences.
Troy Corbett, SGI’s director of traffic safety community engagement, notes that fall witnesses a surge in wildlife collisions, especially involving deer. He advises drivers to be vigilant, reduce speed, watch for wildlife signs, and utilize high beams when necessary to prevent accidents. In unavoidable situations, Corbett recommends maintaining composure, slowing down, and steering away from the animal.
SGI also advises drivers to steer towards the animal’s original position rather than its current trajectory and exercise extra caution during dawn and dusk when visibility may be compromised. Bonnie Dell, executive director of the Wildlife Rescue Society of Saskatchewan, stresses the value of each animal’s life, recounting incidents where volunteers rescued injured animals like coyotes and deer.
Bernie Borgmann, owner of Hooker’s Towing and Recovery, shares his experience of responding to wildlife collision incidents, estimating that 10 to 20 percent of his calls involve such accidents. He describes the impact as akin to hitting a solid barrier and recounts instances of animals causing significant damage to vehicles. Despite the challenges, Borgmann highlights the importance of being mindful of wildlife on the roads to prevent further tragedies.