At approximately 2 a.m. Nov. 26, Legacy Regional Protective Services responded to reports of a moose on Highway 16 east of Lloydminster.
“It happened on Highway 16, just east of Lloydminster,” said Dean Peters, Regional Fire Chief for Legacy Regional Protective Services.
Peters confirmed there were no injuries and the roadway was cleared quickly.
Legacy Regional Protective Services reports that 26 per cent of collisions in its district this year involved vehicles striking a moose, eight incidents out of 31 so far.
There have also been two other strikes of the large omnivores reported in surrounding municipalities within the past week, reflecting an increase in wildlife movement during late fall.
Authorities are reminding drivers to stay alert and take extra precaution during peak hours of activity.
How to reduce your risk of a moose collision
If you see one, expect more:
Moose do not always travel alone. Slow immediately if one is spotted and watch for additional animals crossing seconds later.
Slow down where they are common:
Moose are most active during dawn and dusk near wetlands, muskeg, creeks and forest edges. Reducing speed improves reaction time and braking distance, especially in low visibility. Stay within posted limits.
Scan the ditches constantly:
Moose are tall and dark, making them harder to see than deer. Watch for movement, shadow disruption and eye shine along both shoulders of the road.
Do not swerve:
If a collision is unavoidable, brake in a straight line. Swerving increases the risk of entering oncoming traffic or rolling the vehicle.
Use high beams when safe to do so:
High beams increase visibility and give more reaction time. Moose do not always reflect light well, but extra illumination may help reveal movement earlier. Dim lights for oncoming vehicles and return to high beams once clear.
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