Accidents involving animals are on the rise on Quebec roads. The number of collisions has increased by 5% in one year, according to data obtained by TVA Nouvelles.
There were 6,090 wildlife collisions last year, while in 2020, 5,781 accidents were reported.
This situation is explained, in particular, by the return to a more normal life in the context of the pandemic. The flow of traffic decreased considerably at the start of the health crisis.
Statistics include accidents involving white-tailed deer, moose, bears, caribou and other species.
In Bas-Saint-Laurent, the number of such accidents is on the rise, from 273 in 2020 to 289 last year. On the North Shore, 49 accidents with animals were reported in 2021, that’s 11 more than the previous year.
The Société de l’assurance automobile du Québec (SAAQ) reminds drivers to adapt their driving in areas indicating the high presence of wildlife along the roads.
Vigilance is required, since these accidents often occur in the evening, at night or at dawn.
“When crossing the wooded roads, that’s a possibility at any time. So, you have to anticipate the presence of animals at all times, you have to slow down, adapt your speed, you have to adapt your driving, be ready to react quickly, because an animal can appear, ”explains the SAAQ spokesperson. , Mario Vaillancourt.
With the holiday period, many motorists find themselves in regions they know less. A call for caution is issued.
“People often go to areas they know less about. They make long routes, it can increase the risks, ”adds Mr. Vaillancourt.