The Wyoming Department of Transportation is trying out new nighttime speed limits in an attempt to combat the rise in animal-vehicle collisions during animal migration periods.
A video released by the Wyoming Department of Transportation on Thursday, May 11th, explains that WYDOT is examining how reduced speed limits at night in certain areas may benefit both people and animals.
According to the Casper Star Tribune, WYDOT is currently in the middle of a 2-year study on the effectiveness of the night time policy by observing the reactions of the animals, specifically deer, to vehicles in different situations, and by observing the responsiveness of drivers to the new speed limits.
The reduced speeds in the areas being tested will be seasonal, only for “a pretty short time in the fall and a pretty short time in the spring.” says Corinna Riginos of the Northern Rockies Conservation Cooperative.
Seven areas throughout Wyoming are being included in the study.
Check out WYDOT’s video here.