ICBC urges drivers to be more cautious of wildlife this spring and summer

As warmer temperatures return to Greater Victoria and the rest of British Columbia, ICBC is warning motorists to keep a keen eye out for increased wildlife on roads. 

ICBC says that every year, thousands of animals are struck on BC roads, which leads to vehicles being damaged, occupants being seriously injured and in some cases, fatalities.

Data shows that between 2015 and 2024, more than 112,000 crashes involving wildlife were reported throughout the province. This figure includes 24 fatal incidents. 

Furthermore, since 2020, wildlife collision frequency has increased every year, peaking in 2024 at 12,519 crashes. 

“As British Columbians, we share our roads with the wildlife that make this province unique,” said Niki Sharma, Attorney General. 

“Slowing down and driving defensively in high‑risk areas can help prevent crashes and protect both people and wildlife.”

ICBC road safety manager Kathleen Nadalin added that wildlife is part of the landscape and part of the driving risk in BC.

“As spring and summer travel picks up, drivers should expect the unexpected,” she said. 

“By managing your speed, scanning the roadside and driving defensively you can make the difference between a close call and a serious crash with an animal.”

ICBC has determined that deer are the most commonly struck wildlife on BC roads, and their population in and around Victoria is plentiful. 

Since 2015, deer have been involved in nearly 75% of all wildlife collisions. In 2024 alone, over 9,400 deer strikes were reported. 

According to Jadzia Porter, program coordinator with the Wildlife Collision Prevention Program, May is one of the most dangerous months for deer collisions because they migrate and move across roads more frequently.

“With deer populations continuing to grow, the risk is increasing everywhere,” said Porter. 

“When we get behind the wheel, it’s important to remember we’re travelling through wildlife habitat and places these animals depend on to survive.”

To avoid deer strikes, it is recommended to slow down and stay alert near creeks, roadside habitat and long, open stretches of road.

ICBC added that aside from deer, it is not uncommon to encounter moose, bears, elk and raccoons on BC’s roads. 

The organization offers the following safety tips to best avoid collisions with wildlife:

• Maintain your vehicle’s headlights, signal lights, taillights, windshield wipers, horn and tires
• Adhere to road signage, including wildlife crossing signs 
• Slow down—speed is one of the most common factors in vehicle collisions
• Drive defensively by actively watching for wildlife on the road, in the ditch, on the shoulder and in the right of way
• Be mentally prepared to encounter wildlife in both urban and rural areas

In Greater Victoria, particularly Oak Bay and Esquimalt, the deer population is abundant, with a population of around 200.