Caltrans to Solve Highway 17 Wildlife Collision Problem by 2021

Caltrans to Solve Highway 17 Wildlife Collision Problem by 2021

Several of our previous blog posts discussed why Highway 17 is one of the most dangerous roads in California. Each year, there are numerous traffic collisions on this deadly road, which stretches from the South Bay Area to Santa Cruz. Wildlife collisions are another reason why there are accidents on Highway 17 each year. Last month, Caltrans announced a construction project designed to prevent wildlife collisions on Highway 17. Caltrans said it will build an underground tunnel for wildlife to safely cross the highway. The tunnel, which is scheduled to be completed by 2021 and costs $12 million, will be installed at the infamous Laurel Curve. More than 50 percent of wildlife collisions on Highway 17 occur at the Laurel Curve. Researchers spent years studying why deer, mountain lions, foxes and bobcats frequently cross the road at this specific part of Highway 17. Animals are drawn to the Laurel Curve because of the terrain. California has very few wildlife crossings. Caltrans hopes that its new tunnel will become a blueprint for other roads throughout the state. If the project is successful, then Highway 17 may become safer for both motorists and wildlife. UC Davis released a report that estimates there were 7,831 wildlife collisions on California roads during 2016. Deer, mountain lions, elk, bears, wild pigs and coyotes are involved in these accidents. In some cases, collisions with wildlife cause deaths or catastrophic injuries to motorists.

Beware of the Other Causes of Highway 17 Accidents

While the wildlife project is welcome news from Caltrans, there are still other hazards on Highway 17 that are more likely to cause accidents. Distracted drivers, intoxicated drivers, poor weather conditions and speeders cause Highway 17 accidents each year. It can be more difficult for California transportation and law enforcement officials to address these problems. To learn more about these hazards, we encourage you to continue reading our website for regular blog updates. Golden State Lawyers can help you determine whether it would be possible to recover compensation after a Highway 17 accident. You can schedule a free consultation with one of our attorneys by calling (408) 279-4222 or by describing your situation on our case review form.