Wildlife awareness tips for drivers

The Montana Department of Transportation reminds motorists that October is often the worst month on many of Western Montana's roads in terms of wildlife-vehicle collisions.

When encountering animals along our roads, the department suggests the following driving and awareness tips:

-Reducing speeds when wildlife is present along the road is the best way to avoid collisions, because lower speeds reduce stopping distances.

-Expect wildlife at dusk and dawn, when animals are moving between bedding sites and feeding areas.

-Expect deer near crossing signs. These signs are placed where crashes frequently occur. If you see one animal, expect more in the area.

-Drive defensively and don't swerve. If you see an animal, slow down and expect it to dart in front of you. Use your brakes and not your steering wheel. Swerving can cause situations more dangerous than hitting the animal.

-Road kill often attracts scavengers such as bears and eagles and creates collision hazards for more sensitive animal populations.

Despite the myth that hunting season drives deer and other large animals into the mountains, the truth is that colder weather and mating brings many animals into the valleys.

As a result, collisions between automobiles and large animals such as deer, elk and bears generally skyrocket in October.