The aftermath of a car versus moose collision on Interstate 80 near milepost 134, Tooele, Utah, Feb. 18, 2016 | Photo courtesy of Utah Highway Patrol, St. George News

ST. GEORGE – A Salt Lake City woman had quite the wild ride Wednesday night after striking a moose on Interstate 80 near a golf course in Tooele. The encounter subsequently ripped the entire roof off the woman’s car.

According to a media statement issued by the Utah Highway Patrol, at approximately 11:30 p.m., a 23-year-old woman was driving a red Mazda 3 west on Interstate 80 near milepost 134 when she crashed into a moose standing in the left lane of travel.

“When the vehicle hit the moose,” the UHP report stated, “the moose struck the vehicle’s windshield and then went over the top of the vehicle, taking the roof of the car with it.”

The woman sustained minor injuries during the crash and was transported to a local hospital, UHP officials said.

Wildlife crossing: Tips to avoid animal-vehicle collisions

According to the AAA website, whether it’s a deer, dog, moose or squirrel, animals on the roadway are unexpected, and their actions can be erratic and unpredictable, creating a dangerous situation for motorists.

AAA states that many wildlife-vehicle collisions are preventable and offers the following safety tips on what to do if an animal runs in front of your vehicle:

• Scan the road and shoulders ahead of you. Looking ahead helps provide enough reaction time if an animal is spotted. Also, remember some animals move in groups, so when there is one, there are usually more in the area.

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  Use high-beam headlights if there’s no oncoming traffic. Wildlife may be spotted sooner when using high beams. This will give the driver time to slow down, move over or honk the horn to scare the animal away. High beams also help in spotting some animals’ reflective eyes.

• If a collision is unavoidable, apply the brakes firmly and remain in your lane. Swerving to avoid an animal can often cause a more serious crash or result in drivers losing control of vehicles.

• Be extra cautious at dawn and dusk. Most animals, especially deer, tend to be more active early in the morning and at dusk.

• Slow down and use extra caution when traveling through areas with a high and active wildlife population. Be aware of increased wildlife movement in some regions during certain times of year, such as hunting or mating season.

• Drivers should always wear a seat belt and remain awake, alert and sober. 

This report is based on preliminary information provided by law enforcement or other emergency responders and may not contain the full scope of findings.

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