How to translate text using browser tools
1 September 2004 ANIMAL-RELATED VEHICLE ACCIDENTS AT THE LOS ALAMOS NATIONAL LABORATORY, NEW MEXICO
James Biggs, Sherri Sherwood, Sarah Michalak, Leslie Hansen, Carey Bare
Author Affiliations +
Abstract

Large animals occurring on Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL) and adjoining property pose a number of concerns to area residents and government agencies. Some of these concerns are animal-related accidents that can result in human injuries and fatalities, property damage, and a loss of an economically viable resource (game). We analyzed animal-vehicle accident data with respect to time, season, location, and species for accidents occurring on LANL property and analyzed site characteristics of accident hotspots. We observed a significantly greater number of vehicleelk (Cervus elaphus) accidents during winter compared to summer and spring and a greater number of elk and mule deer (Odocoileus hemionus) vehicle accidents during late afternoon and evening hours compared to morning and afternoon hours. We estimated a cost of $136,500 per year associated with animal–vehicle accidents occurring on LANL property (excluding medical costs). Slope and vegetation height were the best predictors of the status of an area as a hotspot or a control site. These data will be used in public education efforts and to develop mitigation measures to reduce the potential for accidents.

James Biggs, Sherri Sherwood, Sarah Michalak, Leslie Hansen, and Carey Bare "ANIMAL-RELATED VEHICLE ACCIDENTS AT THE LOS ALAMOS NATIONAL LABORATORY, NEW MEXICO," The Southwestern Naturalist 49(3), 384-394, (1 September 2004). https://doi.org/10.1894/0038-4909(2004)049<0384:AVAATL>2.0.CO;2
Accepted: 1 October 2003; Published: 1 September 2004
RIGHTS & PERMISSIONS
Get copyright permission
Back to Top