COCHRANE - Two people received minor injuries and a moose was killed in a crash on Highway 11.
Around 10:30 p.m. yesterday (May 5), a vehicle hit a moose on Highway 11 west of Cochrane, says James Bay OPP.
The driver and passenger of the vehicle suffered minor injuries in the crash, during which the moose's hoof went through the driver's side window. The impact of the crash killed the moose, said police.
It's the time of year that there is higher risk for moose being on area roads, warns police.
To lower the risk of hitting a moose, the OPP suggest drivers:
- Obey the speed limit, risk of injury is greater at higher speeds.
- Be cautious in areas of reduced visibility, hills, curves, and dense vegetation.
- Use your high beams when possible (low beams for oncoming traffic)
- Keep your eyes on the road, scanning for wildlife. A passenger can do this too.
- Stay alert and avoid distractions such as cell phones.
- If you have the choice - avoid driving the highway higher risk times - dusk and dawn.
- Seatbelts are a must; risk of serious injury is greatly increased in unbelted persons involved in a moose collision.
- Be cautious not to veer into oncoming traffic and be aware of vehicles around you when braking.
If you hit a moose or other wildlife on the road, police say to pull over safely — if possible — and turn on your four-way hazard lights. Don't approach the injured animal and call police.
