Fall is upon us in Park County, made obvious by the changing leaves, blaze orange fashion and animals moving to lower areas. As the animals continue to come down from the higher elevations there will be an inevitable increase of encounters with them, including the potential for wildlife to pose a risk for motorists on the roadways. WYDOT urges drivers to be prepared for the unpredictable nature of animals when navigating the roads of Park County, they are capable of darting into traffic quickly. A motor vehicle crash with an animal can cause expensive damage to vehicles, harm to drivers or passengers, or worst of all, it can be fatal. 

Besides being especially vigilant and patient there are certain additional steps motorists can do to increase their safety on the roadways:

1. Drive with increased awareness when traveling in known wildlife areas. And in this part of the world that does include downtown locations. 

2. Be particularly aware of the changeable nature of the animals. Many are herd animals; if there is one, watch for more.

3. Pay attention to changes in habitat types along roadways. Creek bottoms and where agricultural fields meet trees are prime areas for wildlife to cross roadways.

4. Pay extra attention when driving at dawn and dusk when animals are most active.

5. Slow down and increase the distance between other cars. When traveling at a higher rate of speed, the ability to take evasive action is greatly reduced and the force of impact in the event of a collision is increased.  Reducing speed will also increase response time to avoid a possible collision. 

6. Practice active driving.  Distracted driving, such as driving while talking on a cellphone, text messaging, which is illegal in Wyoming, or chatting with passengers is even more dangerous at this time of the year.  

7. As always, make sure everyone in the vehicle obeys Wyoming statutes by wearing seatbelts.

One of the many charms of this region is its abundant and beautiful wildlife. The responsibility of protecting said wildlife falls to everyone. So, leave a little earlier, drive safely, and enjoy the scenery that only Park County can offer. 

Always watch dot.state.wy.us/home.html for safety, news, and updates to driving conditions.