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Moose-Motor Vehicle Collision: A Continuing Hazard in Northern New England
David E Clark1, Gwendolyn Fulton2, Julianne B Ontengco1
1Department of Surgery, Maine Medical Center, Portland, ME.
Journal of the American College of Surgeons
|March 19, 2019
Summary
Moose-motor vehicle collisions (MMVC) pose a significant risk, with striking a moose increasing occupant mortality 13 times more than hitting a deer. These collisions, common in summer evenings, cause severe injuries, particularly to the head and neck.
Area of Science:
- Traffic Safety
- Public Health
- Wildlife Management
Background:
- Moose-motor vehicle collisions (MMVC) present a severe danger due to the animal's size, often causing roof collapse and direct passenger compartment impact.
- Despite a decline from peak incidence, MMVCs remain frequent in New England, averaging over 500 annually in recent years.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze the incidence, characteristics, and outcomes of moose-motor vehicle collisions in New England.
- To quantify the increased risk of occupant mortality when colliding with moose compared to deer.
Main Methods:
- Utilized public data on MMVC from New England states and trauma registry data from New Hampshire and Maine.
- Employed logistic regression to assess factors influencing vehicle occupant mortality in wildlife collisions.
Main Results:
- MMVC incidence has declined but remains high, predominantly in Maine, New Hampshire, and Vermont, with most crashes occurring in summer evenings.
- Striking a moose significantly increases occupant mortality risk (OR 13.4) compared to striking a deer.
- In a trauma center cohort, 4% of MMVC patients died, with 61% sustaining head, face, or cervical spine injuries.
Conclusions:
- MMVCs are a persistent and serious threat in northern New England, necessitating awareness from trauma services regarding injury patterns.
- Continued public education, cautious driving, and effective moose population management are crucial for mitigating MMVC risks.
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