Watch for Wildlife

BOISE – This time of year brings fall colors and brisk hikes, but if you’re heading into the backcountry, AAA reminds you to watch for wildlife.

“Many large animals are very active during rutting season, and a collision with one can be just as dangerous as with another vehicle,” says AAA Idaho public affairs director Matthew Conde.  “While we urge caution at all times in remote areas and open range, be especially vigilant at dusk and dawn.”

Wildlife safety tips

• Scan the road and ditch the distractions.  The same camouflage that  animals use to avoid predators could make them difficult for you to see.
• Use high beams when there’s no oncoming traffic.
• If you see one animal, slow down – many travel in groups of two or more, including elk and deer.
• If an animal is in the road, pull over and honk your horn to scare it away.
• If you can’t avoid a collision with an animal, focus on slowing over swerving, which could put you off the road or into oncoming traffic.
• If you spot a wild animal, use emergency flashers to alert other drivers.