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Deer are the most common wildlife-vehicle collision in British Columbia, accounting for approximately 80% of WVCs in the province1, 2. Around 8,992 deer collisions occur each year in BC (4-year average, 2006-2010)1. However, it is estimated that approximately 50% of deer collisions are not accounted for because of incomplete reporting3. Although smaller than other large mammals like moose, an adult male Mule Deer can weigh up to 180 kgs (396 lbs) and stand around 90-95 cm tall at the shoulders2. Colliding with a deer is dangerous as they can damage vehicles and smash through windshields if hit with enough force. Approximately 7% of all deer-vehicle collisions result in human injury or fatality3. Cost calculations show the average cost of deer-vehicle collisions to be $6,617 USD (~ $8,191 CAD)3. This includes vehicle repairs, human injuries and fatalities, towing, accident response and investigation, potential hunting revenue lost for the animal killed in the collision, and cost of disposal of the animal carcass. Deer populations have been increasing in BC, increasing the likelihood of collision. Generally, traffic collisions do not significantly impact the population status for deer3; however, with the high costs for clean-up, high frequency, and risks to human safety, deer vehicle collisions are a serious concern.
There are two distinct high-risk times for deer crashes. May and November have the highest rates of deer collisions, with fall being the worst2.
Deer collisions typically occur in the evening.
Location2
Deer can be found throughout BC, so it is important to keep an eye out for these animals while driving in any region. The species of deer varies by region. Mule deer (Odocoileus hemionus) can be found throughout BC, with the highest populations in the south interior. The two subspecies, Sitka black-tailed deer (Odocoileus hemionus sitkensis) and Columbia black-tailed deer (Odocoileus hemionus columbianus) are abundant in the north coastal and south coastal region of BC, respectively. White-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus) are found in valley bottoms near the US border and near the Peace River and other tributaries. The highest proportion of deer in BC are found in the southern interior, which is also where most deer collisions occur. The general pattern of all wildlife-vehicle collisions in BC is greatly influenced by the high proportion of deer collisions in the south interior along Highways 1, 3, 16, and 97. Deer collisions are also common along the south coast and near Peace River and other tributaries in Northern BC.
False! In BC, deer can be common to encounter in communities on local roads, as well as on highways. Always watch for wildlife when on BC roads, especially deer.