Increased number of wildlife collisions on Norwegian roads

Autumn is a challenging season for drivers. Darkness descends early in the evening, driving conditions worsen, and there may be four-legged creatures hiding at the edge of the forest attempting to cross the road. In recent weeks, moose collisions have been reported in many locations across the country, and there is reason to believe that this number will only increase.

Over the last two years, more than 9,000 animals have been hit by vehicles, marking an increase of nearly 15 percent, according to Statistics Norway. The majority of these collisions occur in Viken, Innlandet, and Trøndelag.

What could account for this rise?

According to the Institute of Transport Economics, a contributing factor to the rising numbers may be higher speeds on the roads. Recent data also indicates that inattention is overwhelmingly the leading cause of fatal traffic accidents, suggesting that a combination of speed and inattention plays a significant role in these statistics. The cause of increased inattention is still uncertain, but there is a reasonable belief that heightened screen use is a major contributing factor.

This applies not only to mobile screens, but also to integrated screens with demanding user interfaces.

If there is any doubt, a collision could have fatal consequences. An adult bull moose normally weighs between 400 and 550 kg, but can weigh up to 750 kg if they are very large. Although new cars are becoming safer, it is difficult to protect yourself from such a collision. Most injuries after a collision with a moose affect the head, face and neck, according to the insurance company If.

If a moose runs out into the road 20 meters in front of you in the 80 zone, you only have one second to stop. The most severe injuries occur when the moose appears suddenly, leaving the driver with little opportunity to slow down. There is a high risk of the driver and passengers being permanently disabled.

However, if you reduce your speed slightly, you can create the safety margin needed to avoid a collision.

In other words, there is good reason to exercise extra caution when behind the wheel this autumn. When passing signs warning of wildlife danger, slowing down and remaining vigilant, especially in areas with a high risk of encountering animals, is advisable. Pay particular attention to roadsides.

If you meet another vehicle, do not look into the lights. Instead, let your eyes follow the road.

In the event of an accident, prioritize your safety. Stop in a way that doesn't obstruct traffic, and protect yourself by wearing a reflective vest. If the vehicle is damaged and inoperable, it is important to mark the scene of the accident with a warning triangle. Assess any personal injuries and call 113 if urgent assistance is required.

Contact the police at 02800 to inform them of the situation, enabling them to engage a local wildlife rescue team to handle the injured animal. If you have marked the location, it will be easier to start a search for the animal. Marking the location facilitates the search for the animal, but it's important not to follow a fallen animal, as it may be injured and pose a threat.

Feedback from Safedrive users shows that they experience increased safety with hazard alerts. In fact, over 900,000 hazard alerts are reported annually. Animals in the roadway alone account for 62% of all incidents reported on Safedrive Pro.

Among the many who have achieved a safer everyday life with hazard warnings is Namdal Taxi. The company reduced wildlife collisions by over 80% after installing Safedrive in their vehicles. Learn more about professional driver Roy Evensen-Stangvik and Namdal Taxi's experiences with Safedrive Pro in this article.