The Eastman Region ─ which includes communities Steinbach, Lac du Bonnet, Anola, Birds Hill Park area and Falcon Lake ─ is the province’s number one area for vehicle-deer collisions. There are about 1,600 collisions yearly within this region, based on statistics collected by Manitoba Public Insurance from 2011 to 2015.
“Motorists are encouraged to exercise extra care and caution during October and November ─ the two worst months for vehicle-deer collisions,” said Ward Keith, vice-president, Business Development & Communications and chief product officer, Manitoba Public Insurance.
“Last year, 300 Manitobans were injured in wildlife-related collisions. Over the last 10 years, eight people in Manitoba have been killed in crashes caused by an animal on a road.”
Rounding out the province’s Top 5 vehicle-deer collision regions:
- Eastman Region – 1,540 yearly collisions
- Westman – 1,400 yearly collisions
- Interlake – 1,060 yearly collisions
- City of Winnipeg – 610 yearly collisions
- Pembina Valley – 600 yearly collisions
Tips to help keep you safe:
- Slow down when you see wildlife crossing signs.
- Animals are normally more active at dawn, dusk and at night.
- Be especially alert where brush and tall grass grow near the road.
- Scan the road and roadside for animals ─ get your passengers to help.
- Watch for the reflection of headlights in the eyes of a deer, or a dark silhouette.
- Do not swerve if an animal does cross in front of your vehicle ─ brake firmly to reduce the impact between an animal and your vehicle.
Overall, Manitobans are involved in about 11,000 vehicle-wildlife collisions yearly.
Motorists are also reminded that it is illegal to place food and other wildlife attractants along provincial roads.