CPW: Timechange increases chances for wildlife encounters on roads

With the changing of the clocks, falling back an hour will put motorists in more danger of collisions with wildlife, Colorado Parks and Wildlife reported in a news release.

Going from Daylight Savings Time to Standard Time this month means the sun is setting earlier in the day, giving motorists going home from work and driving in the evening more likelihood of coming across wildlife, the release stated.

“November is a dangerous month for motorists and wildlife,” Colorado Parks and Wildlife Watchable Wildlife Coordinator John Koshak said in the release. “Commuters will be driving at dusk when visibility is poor and when wildlife is most active.”

November is also the peak of deer mating season, making them even more active, distracted, and vulnerable targets on the road, according to the release.

Parks and Wildlife advises drivers to report any collisions with wildlife to the police immediately, and call 911 if there are any human injuries. While some accidents will not be avoidable, drivers slowing down and staying alert after dark will help to limit the number of incidents.

Wildlife-related accidents can occur anywhere, but Colorado Hwy. 13 between Meeker and Rifle is a nearby road which has been qualified as “high-risk” area by Parks and Wildlife, the release stated.

Motorists looking to salvage road kill must apply for a permit within 48 hours with Colorado Parks and Wildlife, according to the agency.

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