Canada’s rural and northern roads are home to more than just scenic landscapes—they’re also shared by deer, moose, elk, bears, and smaller animals. Wildlife collisions are a significant road safety concern, causing thousands of accidents annually. Whether you’re a local commuter or on a cross-country road trip, knowing the laws and safety practices for driving near wildlife is essential.
Threats for wildlife on Canadian roads Deer and mousse - common in rural and forest areas, especially in the morning and evening.
Bear - sometimes crosses the highways of the northern provinces.
Small mammals and birds - can suddenly piling on the roads.
Confrontation with large animals can cause serious vehicle injuries and injuries, while killing small animals can still lead to loss of control or legal consequences.
Promises about wildlife on the road While specific wildlife traffic laws vary from the province, some large rules apply throughout Canada:
Follow warning signals for wildlife
Yellow diamond size indications indicate high animal activity areas. Drivers are legally necessary to remember these warnings and adjust the speed.
Reduced speed in wildlife areas
Some regions impose restrictions at low speeds during the migration season or at night; Failure to comply can lead to fines.
Duties to avoid conflict
Drivers have a legal obligation to take appropriate measures to prevent wildlife from killing wildlife, including braking or stopping when safe.
Reporting of conflict
In most provinces, you should report a collision with local police or wildlife officers with large animals (such as deer or mousse). This helps prevent secondary accidents and allows for damaged animal help. Safety tips for driving near wildlife Stay gently in dawn and animals in the evening are most active in low light.
Scan the edges of the road - see movement and “I shine” from the headlights.
Slowly in sending areas - crossing wildlife is marked for a reason; The conflict is more likely here.
Never swoop raightly - swarging can cause a worse accident. Take a brake firm and keep control.
Travel in groups when possible - following other vehicles can give you extra response time if they first see wildlife.
Use the tall beam safely - when there is no future traffic, high beams can help animals move on.
What to do if you see wildlife on the road Slowly immediately.
Honestly in short traits to encourage the animal to move.
Be prepared for sudden movement - many expensive journeys in groups.
If safe, stop and wait until the road is cleaned.