The Colorado State Patrol on Monday warned that the public that it's now animal peak season in the Rockies, noting a high number of animal-caused crashes last year.

Colorado State Patrol troopers investigated 256 crashes involving animals on the roadways in the Rockies and Western Slope last year, the agency said in a news release on Monday. November had the highest number of incidents.  

Animal crashes typically happen more often during hunting and mating season from October through December.

“Seeing the reflection of two eyes from an animal on the road in front of you can send a wave of adrenaline and fear through even the most experienced drivers,” officials said in a statement. “So, the Colorado State Patrol would like to assist by providing some general recommendations to lower the chance of a critter collision.”

Authorities said the best thing to do to decrease chances of animal collisions is to follow posted speed limit, use high beams in unlit areas and allow enough time to reduce speed or change lanes if no one is driving behind.

“The worst choice you can make is to swerve outside your lane or slam on your brakes with vehicles behind you,” explained Major David Rollins, District 4 Commander for the Colorado State Patrol. “People can end up in serious crashes when they let their emotions take over to save Bambi or his friends.”

If one has no choice but to hit the animal, the State Patrol advised drivers to drive through, stay in the lane, and aim toward the butt of the animal.

The agency said drivers should not swerve or jerk the wheel. Here are other tips:

• Pay attention to “deer crossing” signs

• Brake in a straight line when wildlife is on the road

• Warn other motorists by honking or tapping on the brakes

• Flick high beams at animals

The agency also cautioned drivers to watch for animals between dusk and dawn, watch for herds and to be warned that, if one sees a single deer or elk, there are probably more nearby.

“If you do hit an animal while driving, make sure you and your passengers are OK," the agency said. "Call 911 if the animal is large and still there after you hit it, and follow the emergency dispatcher's instructions.”

https://denvergazette.com/news/colorado-state-patrol-animal-crash-precautions/article_b7d58a4e-a071-11ef-b01d-df8ab74e81f4.html