OPP warn drivers to watch out for wildlife

The Ontario Provincial Police is reminding drivers to keep an eye out for wildlife.

Over the last three years, the OPP says over 6,000 wildlife related crashes happened in central Ontario – with 2,193 collisions happening last year alone.

Police say the majority of wildlife-related collisions happen between October and December, with over 85 percent involving deer.

Policing are warning drivers to use caution as we enter deer mating season.

Safety tips:

• Reduce Speed: Slower speeds give you more time to react if an animal suddenly appears on the road, especially at dawn or dusk when visibility is reduced.
• Watch For Signs: Use caution in areas of known high animal populations, which are often indicated by roadway signs.
• Use High Beams Wisely: When driving at night, use high beams on empty roads when there’s no oncoming traffic to give yourself more time to spot and react to wildlife on the road.
• Watch for Movement: Look for reflections from your headlights, which often catch the eyes of wildlife.
• Brake Firmly, but Don’t Swerve: If a collision seems imminent, it’s safer to brake firmly rather than swerving, which could lead to losing control of your vehicle or colliding with another vehicle or fixed object.
• Always stay sober, alert, undistracted and seat-belted when driving.