(Colorado)—Colorado is known for its breathtaking views, incredible outdoor activities and abundant wildlife. One of the most common animals to see while traveling in the mountains is elk. June and July are peak calving seasons for elk, and the Colorado State Patrol is launching an education and enforcement campaign, “Give Me a ‘Brake’” to help reduce wildlife–vehicle collisions.
Last year, animal-involved crashes were the third most common crash factor among all crash types (fatal, injury, and property damage). Troopers investigated 3,573 of these crashes. Ninety-six percent of the crashes caused property damage only to the motorist, but the wildlife often did not survive.
“Highway 74 in Evergreen, like so many picturesque areas of Colorado, is an example of a roadway that sees many wildlife crossings,” explains Col. Matthew Packard, chief of the Colorado State Patrol. “We want to warn drivers to slow their speeds and stay alert during this high activity season for new animals traveling with their mothers.”
While dusk and dawn are the most common times for wildlife-vehicle collisions, they can and do happen at all hours of the day. Colorado State Troopers will also be conducting weekly enforcement on Highway 74 this June to keep speeds down and increase knowledge on how to spot wildlife and what to do.
Troopers wanted to share these practical tips from Wild Aware and their Wild Eyes Program:
- Scan roads (or shoulders) for movement, eye shine
- Use bright lights at night when safe and flash lights at oncoming cars to warn of wildlife on the road
- Do not honk at wildlife in/near road
- Stop for wildlife in road/use hazard lights
- Don’t exceed the speed limit
Wildlife-vehicle collisions can be very costly to drivers. According to the Rocky Mountain Insurance Information Association, the insurance industry pays out nearly $1.1 billion yearly in claims for all wildlife collisions nationwide. The average property damage cost of these crashes is estimated at over $3,000.
If you are involved in a crash with an animal, Colorado State Patrol wants you to call 9-1-1 just as you would in any other emergency. In addition, if you witness wildlife in distress from possibly being struck on or near the side of the road, call *CSP for the proper resource to be notified and sent to the scene.
Troopers will conduct enforcement operations each Saturday in June to slow speeds and build awareness about wildlife in the area. The Colorado State Patrol reminds motorists to watch for wildlife at all times of day, but expect more wildlife at dawn and dusk.
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