Spokane, WA – As winter conditions deepen across Washington and nights grow longer, drivers near Spokane are being warned about a seasonal danger that spikes sharply this time of year: wildlife collisions after dark.
According to Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife and transportation officials, winter forces animals to significantly alter their movement patterns, bringing them closer to roads and highways—often during evening and early morning hours when visibility is lowest. Shorter daylight hours mean more drivers are traveling in darkness just as wildlife activity increases.
Officials say white-tailed deer, mule deer, elk, coyotes, and other wildlife are pushed toward roadways as food becomes scarce and snowpack limits movement at higher elevations. In eastern Washington, animals frequently migrate from forested hills and mountain foothills into lower valleys and open areas near Spokane, placing them directly in vehicle travel paths—often along I-90, U.S. 2, U.S. 395, and rural highways.
Wildlife biologists note that winter intensifies migration and feeding pressure, causing animals to move earlier in the evening and later in the morning. This overlap with commute times significantly increases the likelihood of crashes. Deer collisions are common statewide, while elk collisions—though less frequent—pose serious dangers due to the animals’ size and limited nighttime visibility.
The Washington State Department of Transportation urges drivers to slow down in areas marked with wildlife crossing signs and remain especially alert between sunset and sunrise. High beams should be used when possible, but officials caution drivers not to swerve suddenly to avoid animals, as that can lead to rollovers or secondary crashes—particularly on icy or snow-covered roads.
Drivers are also encouraged to watch roadsides carefully near wooded areas, open rangeland, river corridors, and less-developed stretches outside the Spokane metro. Wildlife often travels in groups, meaning if one animal crosses the road, others may follow moments later.
As winter continues and daylight remains limited, officials say wildlife-related crashes will remain a serious risk across Washington. Drivers are urged to use extra caution during evening and early morning travel, when animal movement is at its peak.
