Two Uninjured After Wildlife-Involved Collision - Interstate 5

Photo by: Oregon State Police

(CRESWELL, Ore) — Two drivers were not injured Friday night following a vehicle-wildlife collision on Interstate 5 three mile south of Creswell.

Oregon State Police (OSP), Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT), and Oregon Department of Fish & Wildlife (ODFW) urge motorists to be extra alert for wildlife on or n ear our roads.

On October 3, 2014 at approximately 8:10 p.m., a 2004 Honda Accord driven by a 60-year old male was southbound in the left lane on Interstate 5 near milepost 179 when the driver saw a deer standing on the right fog line.

As the driver began to slow, the deer ran across the highway were the Honda hit it head-on. A 2000 Chevrolet Tahoe driven by a 33-year old female was following the Honda and struck the rear of the car.

The drivers were not injured and both cars were towed from the scene because of damage sustained in the collision. The deer was killed.

According to ODOT, over the past 10 years more than a third of the total reported vehicle-wildlife crashes occurred September - November.

During this season, OSP, ODOT and ODFW urge drivers to be aware of the possible dangers associated with animals on or near our highways. Extra vigilance is required.

The following information may help reduce these incidents:

* The annual deer rut season typically lasts from late October to mid-to-late November, increasing deer activity in and around roadways.

* During the next few months there will be fewer daylight hours and visibility will be challenged by darkness and winter weather conditions.

* Be attentive at all times, but especially sunset to sunrise.

* When driving in areas that have special signs indicating the possible presence of animals/wildlife, please use extra caution because these signs are posted for a reason.

* Be extra careful in areas where there is a lot of vegetation next to the road or while going around curves. Wildlife near the road may not be visible.

* Remember that the presence of any type of animal/wildlife could also mean that others are nearby.

* When you see an animal/wildlife near or on the roadway, reduce your speed and try to stay in your lane. Many serious crashes are the result of drivers swerving to avoid wildlife or other obstacles and they crash into another vehicle or lose control of their own vehicle.

* The same advice applies for smaller wildlife like nutria or raccoons - try to stay in your lane and do not swerve for these animals. They are less dangerous to vehicles than big game animals; losing control of your vehicle is a larger concern.

* Always wear your safety belt, as even the slightest collision could result in serious injuries.