Last week on the Coquihalla Highway outside of Vancouver, a car accident with a deer caused a vehicle to crash down an embankment, killing two of the vehicle’s occupants and critically injuring one. The accident occurred just south of Kamloops early on the morning of July 4.
In light of this tragic news, the personal injury lawyers at Stephens & Holman wish to remind everyone of the importance of safe driving, especially in areas where wildlife thrives. According to ICBC, more than half of the roughly 10,000 annual collisions between animals and cars take place in the province’s Interior. With this alarming statistic, it’s important to be cautious of wildlife on the roads, especially where animal crossing signs are posted.
Along with paying attention to animal crossing signs, a few tips on how to avoid collisions with wildlife while driving include:
- Do not speed in areas known to have wildlife
- Always keep your eyes on the road and avoid distracted driving
- If you see a large animal on the road, take your foot off the gas and brake immediately
- Then quickly look for an escape route around the animal
- If you see a small animal on the road, begin by checking your rearview mirror to make sure that a vehicle is not following too closely behind
- Then quickly hit your brakes and continue to steer straight ahead
Hitting an animal while driving can cause significant damage to your vehicle and severe injury to yourself and your passengers. Understanding the roads where you are driving and how to react if an animal walks in front of your car can save you from a terrible accident.
Before you speak with an ICBC adjuster, contact us for a free, no-obligation consultation. We have the knowledge and experience to help you navigate these difficult times so that you and your family can once again have peace of mind. Call us today at 604-730-4120. We proudly serve greater Vancouver and nearby areas of British Columbia.