Robert Belley credits the metal bars on his truck for saving his life after a collision with a moose near Lanigan in 2024. Two years later, he still struggles with injuries, making it difficult for him to work and maintain his income. Saskatchewan Government Insurance (SGI) warns about the increased risk of wildlife collisions during this time of year, with approximately 8,800 such incidents reported annually in the province, resulting in an average of 400 injuries and two fatalities.
Belley emphasizes the seriousness of these accidents, urging people to be cautious on the roads to avoid life-altering consequences. Troy Corbett from SGI highlights the heightened risk of wildlife collisions in the fall, particularly involving deer, and advises drivers to exercise caution, slow down, watch for animal signs, and use high beams when necessary to prevent accidents.
SGI recommends specific actions to take during a collision, such as remaining calm, slowing down, and steering away from the animal. Bonnie Dell, the executive director of the Wildlife Rescue Society of Saskatchewan, stresses the importance of contacting their organization for assistance in rescuing injured animals involved in collisions. Bernie Borgmann, a veteran towing company owner, recounts the impact of wildlife collisions on vehicles, describing the encounters as akin to hitting a solid barrier.
Overall, the message from experts and survivors alike is clear: wildlife collisions are a serious risk, and preventative measures and caution on the road are crucial to mitigate these potentially devastating incidents.