Forces of 30,000 to 40,000 pounds hit a vehicle when a moose lands on the hood and roof after a high-speed collision, according to Anchorage firefighter Jason Dolph. This physical impact trapped 18-year-old Autumn inside her car Monday evening after she struck a moose on an icy road in Anchorage, Alaska’s News Source reported.
Jaws of Life extract driver from Minnesota Drive wreck
Autumn was driving home on Minnesota Drive near the Raspberry exit when a moose entered the roadway. Her mother, Megan Stone, stated she does not believe her daughter had time to brake before the impact.
Firefighting crews used “Jaws of Life” rescue tools to cut Autumn from the badly damaged vehicle. Stone said that EMTs and doctors have expressed amazement that her daughter survived the ordeal.
Did you know?
When a car strikes a moose at highway speeds, the animal often becomes suspended in the air before landing on the vehicle’s windshield and roof area, according to Anchorage firefighter Jason Dolph.
Anchorage bowl sees 100 annual moose collisions
Fish and Game Biologist Cory Stantorf reported that the Anchorage bowl typically experiences about 100 moose-vehicle collisions every year. Stantorf noted that collisions currently increase due to the rut, as moose move to follow cows.
Stantorf identified several factors that reduce driver reaction time compared to summer months:
- Commutes occurring in “pitch-black” conditions.
- A lack of snow to provide contrast for illuminating moose.
- Reduced visibility for students driving to school.
ICU treatment for brain bruising and broken hand
Autumn remained in the ICU as of Wednesday, where she is expected to stay for several days. Megan Stone confirmed her daughter suffered brain bruising, lacerations, and a broken hand.
Stone said that while the photos of the wreck are “horrifying,” Autumn does not appear to have catastrophic injuries.
Moose collision risks in Anchorage
Biologist Cory Stantorf advises drivers to slow down during the autumn and winter months because the combination of darkness and lack of snow contrast limits reaction time.
Common questions about Anchorage moose collisions
Why do moose collisions increase during this season?
Biologist Cory Stantorf attributes the increase to the rut, which causes moose to move more frequently, combined with “pitch-black” morning commutes.
What makes moose collisions more dangerous than other animal strikes?
Firefighter Jason Dolph explained that the weight of the animal creates forces of 30,000 to 40,000 pounds on the car’s hood and roof when the moose lands after being suspended in the air.
Autumn’s mother said the context of the wreckage showed just how close the family was to losing her.
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