With fall in full gear, drivers are asked to be on the lookout for more animals on highways and rural roads. SGI and the Saskatchewan Wildlife Federation are launching their annual Give Wildlife a Brake road safety campaign, to get that message across. They’re reminding drivers of the importance of staying vigilant, especially as animals like deer and moose travel more frequently in the fall in search of mates for breeding season. Both the increased movement and shorter daylight hours create a greater chance for wildlife-vehicle collisions. SGI counted 8,598 wildlife-related collisions across the province in 2025. 8,261 were classified as property damage-only collisions, 335 were marked as injury collisions, and two were fatal. In total, there were 412 injuries and two fatalities in wildlife-related collisions last year. “Wildlife can appear on the road with very little warning, particularly at dawn, dusk and during the evening hours,” said Darrell Crabbe, acting executive director of the Saskatchewan Wildlife Federation, in a news release. “If you spot an animal near the road, stay alert for others, as wildlife often travel in groups.” The communities of Saskatoon, Prince Albert and Yorkton recorded the highest number of collisions, with the majority involving deer. “Drivers should expect wildlife wherever they travel in Saskatchewan, especially on highways and rural roads,” said Karol Noe, interim EVP with vehicle & driver programs for SGI. “Slowing down and actively scanning the road from shoulder to shoulder gives drivers more time to react. A few extra seconds of caution can protect drivers, passengers and Saskatchewan’s wildlife.” SGI and the wildlife federation offered the following advice: ·Slow down in areas where wildlife is commonly found, especially on highways, rural roads and where wildlife crossing signs are posted ·Be especially cautious at dawn, dusk and during the first few hours after sunset ·Scan the road ahead and watch the shoulders and ditches for movement or reflected eyes ·Use high beams when conditions allow, but remember headlights may cause an animal to freeze on the road ·Stay in control of speed by slowing and steering toward where the animal came from, not where it’s going ·Ensure everyone in the vehicle is wearing a seatbelt ·Avoid driving when tired After a collision drivers are asked to move their vehicle to a safe location when possible, turn on hazard lights and contact the appropriate authorities. You’re also advised not to approach injured or dead wildlife.
