In Rural Arizona, Animal-Related Crashes Increase During June
There are dangers traveling in Arizona’s high country during June as more motorists and wildlife hit the road.
During the summer, animal-related crashes increase in rural areas. Moisture from the monsoons prompts wildlife to travel farther for food. Doug Pacey, spokesman for the Arizona Department of Transportation, explained the measures that keep drivers safe.
“We always want you to obey the speed limit, don’t drive distracted, pay attention to your surroundings. But when you see the signs that alert you to deer in the area or elk, things like that; those signs are there for a reason because they are known areas where animals can cross or where they live,” said Pacey.
ADOT has also implemented wildlife crossings in some areas that have been successful in reducing the number of crashes between vehicles and animals.
