In New Hampshire, there are about 68 moose-vehicle accidents each year. On top of that, an estimated 1,200 deer-vehicle collisions occur annually. With the peak season occurring from October through December, the risk to both drivers and wildlife is now at its highest.State officials note that deer collisions far outnumber moose crashes and are consistently among the most common roadway incidents reported during the fall months. The spike coincides with deer mating season, when the animals are significantly more active and unpredictable.
Earlier this month, on Route 101 in a moose-vehicle collision a man was harmed. According to WMUR, on October 9th, around 8:10 pm a moose was first struck by a car going east, to which after it travelled across the median and a minute later was hit a second time by a car going west. With both collisions, the moose was euthanized on the scene because of serious injuries. The driver of the first vehicle was uninjured, but the second driver suffered significant injuries and was transported to Elliot Hospital.
A similar scene happened two weeks later on Route 125 in Plaistow NH. A moose crossed the busy highway after traveling through the neighborhoods of Plaistow and collided with a vehicle. It got struck in front of the local mcdonalds but happily no one suffered any injuries. A statement shared on Facebook by Plaistow Fire and Police, the road was temporarily closed when the crash happened at 6:36pm.
A moose is compared to hitting a brick wall. It can cause severe damage to a vehicle and occupants. This is because moose are massive animals and can weigh up to 1,500 pounds. With the long legs of the animals, when hit it can cause the heavy body to fall on the windshield or even the top of the car. Deer collisions, while typically less deadly, can still cause significant vehicle damage and pose danger when drivers swerve to avoid the animal.
Especially now, during the peak activity season of hitting these animals, officials urge people to learn how to prevent hitting deer and moose. For example, drive cautiously, especially at dawn and dusk, and be prepared to brake without swerving. Slow down in areas with “Deer Crossing” signs and scan the road’s edges for glowing eyes. If an animal is in the road, slow down and use your horn or flash your high beams; for a large animal like a moose, it’s often safer to stop completely.
