While the number of moose/vehicle collisions has been stable at approximately 250 each year for the last 10 years, the New Hampshire Fish and Game Department is working to make people more aware of the danger and help them reduce the chance of a moose collision or personal injury because of a collision.

“Moose are an important and much-loved part of our state, but it can be dangerous to encounter them on the road,” said Kristine Rines, New Hampshire Fish and Game moose project leader.

“By following a few simple rules, motorists can greatly reduce their chance of a moose/vehicle collision or the severity of personal injury if they do hit a moose.”

Rines suggests motorists keep these points in mind:

• New Hampshire’s moose herd numbers approximately 7,000.
• Moose/vehicle collisions happen statewide on all types of roads.
• Be especially cautious in areas with “Moose Crossing” signs, as these signs are placed in areas with a history of collisions.
• Moose/vehicle collisions happen most often from May through November.
• While collisions can happen at any time of day, they occur most frequently at dusk and during the night.
• Moose are dark brown and hard to see against pavement.
• Don’t depend on “eye shine” to alert you to a moose’s presence. Moose are often too tall for their eyes to brightly reflect in the beam of your headlights.

Rines also suggests these driving tips to reduce the chance of a collision or the severity of occupant injury if you do hit a moose:
• Drive no faster than 55 mph, and wear your seatbelt;
• Scan the sides of the road;
• Be able to stop within the zone of your headlights;
• Use high beams whenever possible;
• If you see a moose, slow down or, if necessary, stop until you have passed it or it has left the road.

For more safety tips on avoiding moose collisions, visit www.wildlife.state.nh.us/Wildlife/brake_for_moose.htm.