Minor injuries after moose strikes vehicle on Hwy. 11 near Cochrane

A moose was dispatched and a driver received minor injuries after a moose and vehicle collided Feb. 14 on Highway 11 just south of Cochrane. (OPP photos)

A moose was dispatched and a driver received minor injuries after a moose and vehicle collided Feb. 14 on Highway 11 just south of Cochrane.

James Bay Ontario Provincial Police responded at 7 p.m. to the single-vehicle crash.

“The moose was severely injured and required dispatching,” the OPP said in a news release Friday.

“The James Bay OPP reminds motorists to be cognizant of the danger wildlife can pose.”

Steps you can take to reduce your risk of a moose collision include slowing down, since the risk of injury is greater at higher speeds.

Drive cautiously in areas of reduced visibility, hills, curves, and dense vegetation and use high beams when possible (low beams for oncoming traffic).

“Keep your eyes on the road, scanning for wildlife,” police said.

“A passenger can do this, too. Stay alert and avoid distractions such as cellphones.”

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There is a higher risk of a collision at dusk and dawn, police said, and seatbelts are a must.

“The risk of serious injury is greatly increased in unbelted persons involved in a moose collision,” police said.

“If you hit a moose, pull over safely (if possible) and activate your four-way hazard lights. Do not approach an injured animal, and call police even if you're unsure of damage.”