Tips to Minimize or Prevent Accidents Involving Wildlife

Driving on Ontario’s roads can come with its fair share of surprises, and one of the most serious—and unpredictable—is crossing paths with wildlife. When wildlife-vehicle collisions occur they not only cause severe injuries and costly damage, but in some cases, they’re fatal. In fact, there were dozens of fatalities–and many more non-fatal accidents–involving wildlife on Ontario’s road from 2000 to 2023, according to a fact sheet released last year by the Traffic Injury Research Foundation (TIRF). 

This guide offers practical tips to help you lower the risk of a wildlife accident on the road. We’ll look at high-risk seasons, and smart driving techniques that can help you reduce the chance of animal collisions. Plus, if you’ve had an unfortunate encounter, we’ll explain how a DWA Law car accident lawyer can help you handle the insurance claim process. With some caution and the right guidance, you’ll be better prepared to protect yourself and those around you.

Those roadside wildlife signs aren’t just for show. They’re placed in areas where collisions are common and wild animals frequently cross. When you see them, it’s time to adjust your driving—slow down, stay alert, and be ready for sudden movements from animals.

Slower speeds give you a few more seconds to react if animals travel across the roadway and step into your path. This extra time can make all the difference, letting you brake in control rather than swerve, which could put you in danger with other cars or oncoming traffic.

Animals tend to be more active at dawn, dusk, and during the night, just when visibility is lowest. Driving slower during these hours lets you see potential hazards sooner and react safely if an animal comes onto the road.

And here, high beams can help when there’s no oncoming traffic. They provide better range and let you spot wildlife on the road from farther away. Together, these precautions give you more time to avoid hitting animals—and if a collision does happen, it will likely be less severe.

In high-risk areas, vigilance is everything. A small animal is hard to spot at night, so watch for their eye reflections along the roadside. These can appear as tiny, bright spots in your headlights.

Also, keep an eye on other drivers’ headlights. Flickering lights from oncoming cars may mean there’s an animal on the road up ahead. Seeing wildlife early allows you to react safely, often removing the need for sudden or dangerous moves.

Your first reaction to a sudden animal appearance might be to swerve, but this can cause you to lose control of your vehicle. Swerving often means you end up in oncoming traffic or off the road altogether.

In most cases, braking firmly while staying straight is your best bet. Large animals, like moose, may require swerving, but only if you’re sure you can do so safely. Keeping control of your vehicle, no matter what, is the top priority.

Maintaining clear headlights and windshields might sound simple, but it makes a world of difference, especially at night. Visibility is your biggest advantage when driving in areas with active wildlife.

If you’re on a rural road without oncoming traffic, using your high beams lets you detect animals earlier and gives you more time to react. It’s especially helpful with larger animals, which may be hard to spot until they’re right on the roadside.

Wildlife collisions spike in June and July. There are more drivers on remote and rural roads, as cottage-goers and campers flock to their preferred destinations. When combined with increased animal activity, these months are particularly risky.

When you’re driving in high-risk areas, especially in summer, keep an eye on wildlife signs. Extra awareness goes a long way toward avoiding accidents!

Even with every precaution, wildlife-vehicle collisions can still happen. If you’re involved in one, it’s important to stay calm and take the right steps to protect yourself and your rights.

1. Stay Calm
   Pull over to the side of the road and turn on your hazard lights. Avoid approaching an injured animal—it can be dangerous for both you and others on the road. Hazard lights alert other drivers to your situation and help prevent secondary accidents. Safety first.
2. Report the Incident
   In some areas, you’re legally required to report accidents involving large wildlife. This keeps local authorities informed and helps secure the area, preventing more accidents.

Reporting an accident not only protects you legally but also helps protect other drivers who might face the same hazard. 

1. Document the Accident
   Take photos of the scene, your vehicle’s damage, and anything that could be relevant—wildlife signs, road conditions, or any other visible hazards. This documentation is needed if you’ll be making an insurance claim and especially helpful if there are any issues or disputes over the claim.

The aftermath of a wildlife collision can be stressful, and dealing with insurance companies often adds to the strain—particularly if you’re facing injuries or a denied claim. DWA Law is here to help. Our team of personal injury lawyers has the experience to guide you through the claims process and ensure you’re treated fairly. We’re here to help you pursue the outcome you deserve, with compassion and expertise.

Wildlife-vehicle collision claims frequently involve complicated factors, including damage to your vehicle and medical expenses. A DWA Law life and critical illness lawyer can assist you every step of the way. If your claim is denied, our team is experienced with the appeals process and will fight to make sure you receive the benefits you’re entitled to.

Wildlife-related accidents happen more often than most people think, but with preparation, a little caution, and strong legal support, you can get through the situation more smoothly. And if you ever need assistance, DWA Law is ready to help, guiding you toward fair treatment and a favorable outcome.