10/28/2013
“Be Aware, Drive With Care” to avoid wildlife on Idaho 75
HAILEY – Beginning on Wednesday, Oct. 30, drivers traveling on Idaho 75 will be required to slow down through a reduced speed limit area north of Hailey – an area that has proved to be the greatest concern for wildlife crossings and fatalities in the Wood River valley.
Collisions with deer and elk occur regularly along Idaho 75 through the Wood River Valley. Frequently, animals are struck by vehicles, reducing animal population, causing thousands of dollars in vehicle damage and potentially injuring drivers and passengers.
Like humans, wildlife follow familiar routes in their travels for food, water, and seasonal migrations. Unfortunately, their travels include crossing Idaho 75 on a daily basis in the busiest sections of roadway between Hailey and Ketchum. Wildlife crossings and fatalities take place at several other locations in the Wood River valley, including immediately south of Bellevue on Idaho 75 and throughout Blaine County on U.S. 20.
Drivers are asked to remain mindful of key safety points when traveling throughout the Wood River valley at night:
- DRIVE CAREFULLY - The results of a Blaine County Highway Wildlife Mortality study identified the “hot spots” on Idaho 75 where wildlife crossing and fatalities are most prevalent. Be aware of these
hot spots and slow down when passing through them, especially at night when visibility is poor. - OBEY SPEED LIMITS - Notice speed limit reductions along the highway and make sure you slow down. Reductions in the speed limit are there for your safety and to preserve wildlife.
- BE ALERT - Be alert for animals and ask passengers to do the same. Slow down when you see them as they can run onto the road without warning.
- KNOW THE HOT SPOTS - Note where deer and elk cross. It is important to be prepared.
Drivers are invited to learn more about wildlife crossings along Idaho 75 by visiting the Blaine County website (www.blainecounty.org) and click on the “Hot Topics” link. Wildlife corridor flyers, “Hot Spot” maps, roadkill data, and roadway statistics are all available on the website.