(Colorado)—November is the peak rutting season for many types of Colorado wildlife and the peak month for wildlife crashes across the state. Last year, there were 530 wildlife crashes in November, with 98% of those being property damage only. Yet, November also brings another factor that increases wildlife encounters for motorists – snow.
“Measurable snow season usually reaches the lower elevations of our State by the end of October or mid-November, and this can increase collisions with wildlife migrating or seeking a little relief from the colder, snow-covered ground,” explained Col. Matthew C. Packard, chief of the Colorado State Patrol. “This is particularly true with pronghorns on the eastern plains.”
Wildlife-vehicle collisions can be very costly to drivers. According to the Rocky Mountain Insurance Information Association, the insurance industry pays 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.
Two of the most essential things a motorist can do are to drive the speed limit and use their high beams when not around other motorists in rural areas or neighborhoods adjacent to open space areas. Increase your chances of seeing wildlife crossing the road ahead or along the side by staying alert. You can give yourself the time to adjust your speed or stop if no one is behind you.
While no one wants to harm an animal, causing a more serious crash with oncoming traffic or vehicles behind you can lead to serious human injury and death.
(Image courtesy Colorado Parks and Wildlife/Wayne Lewis)
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.
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ABOUT THE COLORADO STATE PATROL
Since our origin in 1935, the Colorado State Patrol (CSP) has focused on preserving human life and protecting property within our communities. Our 1,100 members embody the core values of Honor, Duty, and Respect in their daily jobs. In addition to our expertise in motor vehicle safety on the state’s roadways, the CSP is responsible for the protection of the Governor and other dignitaries, commercial motor vehicle enforcement, hazardous materials, homeland security, communications, investigative services, criminal interdiction, community education, aviation operations, and more. For additional information, visit us online at Colorado State Patrol or follow us on X, Instagram, YouTube, or Facebook.