Yellowstone Incident Gives Reminder for Truck Driver Safety

By: ClassADrivers.com

Photo by Tevin Trinh on Unsplash

Inclement weather, crazy four-wheelers, debris on the road, construction zones, and finding a good parking spot are all aspects of long-haul trucking that drivers must consider to keep themselves safe while on the job. A recent incident near Yellowstone National Park unfortunately provides one more hazard for truck drivers: Wildlife.

Bison on the Road

On the underlit Highway 191 in southern Montana, just outside Yellowstone, a semi-truck struck a herd of bison, which are known to live in the area. A total of 13 bison either immediately died or were later euthanized due to their injuries. Fortunately, there is no report of harm to the driver.

It’s probably the icy roads led to this particular accident. Police reported that the highway conditions “would dictate traveling below the posted speed limit.” Temperatures were reported below freezing at the time of the accident.

Additionally, Yellowstone officials said that bison frequently gather near the roads when the surrounding natural areas are covered in snow. Bison are hard to see with their dark brown coats. Their eyes also do not reflect light in the same way as, for example, the eyes of a deer.

Wildlife Tips for Truck Drivers

The bison incident is a tragic loss of these majestic creatures, but it’s truly lucky that the driver did not suffer a worse fate.

In addition to keeping a slower speed on icy roads, truck drivers should make sure to include wildlife awareness as part of their route planning.

In woodland areas, especially on rural roads, it’s important to note that deer are most frequently seen near or on roads around dawn or dusk. In California, be aware of cougars and coyotes at night. And of course, near Yellowstone, bison and other American wildlife can be attracted to the roads.

Truck drivers should be aware of signs. Even without a forewarning from a posted sign, drivers can flash their high-beams to get a better look at the road ahead. Simple awareness may save the life of an animal or even your own.