Wildlife hit on the roads

In rural areas is common to see wildlife animals hit on the roads. Wildlife roadkill signal a threat to biodiversity that can have long-term effects on ecosystems. Around one million animals are killed each year on highways in the United States. However, animals on roadways also represent a safety hazards to drivers.

According to the DMV:

• A collision with some form of wildlife occurs, on average, every 39 minutes.
• 1 out of every 17 car collisions involves wandering wild animals.
• 89% of all wildlife collisions occur on roads with 2 lanes.
• 84% of all wildlife collisions occur in good weather on dry roads.
• The average repair cost of a car-deer collision is $2,800.
• Approximately 200 motorists die in the United States each year from car-wildlife collisions.

List of wildlife hit in Taylor County roads

For the last months, a record of dead wild animals found hit in Taylor County roads was listed. The most representative species hit were:

• Raccoon
• Armadillo
• Snakes (Green water)
• Common Mud turtle
• Possum
• Birds (black vulture, egrets)
• Deer

What to do?

Trim your chances of colliding with traversing animals by practicing the following precautions:

• Slow down when passing yellow animal-crossing signs. These warnings are posted because heavy animal traffic frequents the area.
• Wildlife is most active during dusk, dawn, and night. Deer are most frequently hit during dusk and dawn.
• Headlights have an illumination range of 200 to 250 feet. To allow for sufficient brake time, reduce your speed to 45 mph at night―or even down to 30 mph.
• If you cannot stop in time, unfortunate as it may be, it is usually safer to hit the animal than to swerve. Swerving may land you in the path of another car or off the road in a ditch.
• Pull over and call the law enforcement to report the accident. Whether the animal is still on the roadway, they can safely remove it.
• If the animal is still alive, it may be dangerous for you to leave your vehicle.
• Stay in your car and wait for help if your vehicle is unsafe to operate or you are injured.

If you need more information please contact Taylor County Extension or Taylor County Animal Control.

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