(COLORADO) — In 2023, Colorado State Troopers investigated 256 crashes involving animals on roadways in the Colorado Rockies and the western slope, so the Colorado State Patrol (CSP) is sharing safety tips to help reduce the risk of collisions. Two key strategies are driving the speed limit and using high beams when not around other motorists in rural or open-space areas. Staying alert can increase your chances of spotting animals in time to slow down or stop if the road behind is clear. “The worst choice you can make is to swerve outside your lane or slam on your brakes with vehicles behind you,” explained Major David Rollins, District 4 Commander for CSP. “People can end up in serious crashes when they let their emotions take over to save Bambi or his friends.” Drivers should prepare for quick decisions when encountering animals. If time allows and the road behind is clear, honk your horn and brake in a straight line. However, if traffic is close behind and there’s little time, it’s best to maintain your lane, aiming toward the back end of the animal only if it's near the road’s edge. Avoid sudden swerves or sharp turns. CSP has also updated its "Super Cruising in Colorado" resource to help visitors navigate scenic byways and mountain roads safely. Driving Tips to Avoid Animal-Involved Crashes Slow down when animals are nearby, and always obey the speed limit. Stay alert and minimize distractions. Watch for “deer crossing” and other animal warning signs. If you have time and the road is clear behind you, brake in a straight line. Warn motorists by honking and tapping brakes if you spot wildlife on the road. Don’t swerve. If a crash with an animal is unavoidable, maintain control and drive through, then pull over when it is safe. Use high beams, flicking them to possibly scare wildlife away. Be aware of peak animal activity during hunting and mating seasons, October through December. Remain alert between dusk and dawn, and watch for herds as multiple animals often travel together. If a crash with an animal occurs, check on yourself and your passengers, call 911 if the animal is large and still present, and follow instructions from emergency dispatch.