Couple “lucky” to be okay after collision with moose

VERNON – Police are reminding the public to buckle up, slow down and drive safe after an elderly couple and their car collided with a moose over the weekend.

The Grindrod couple was headed north on Highway 97 near Enderby’s Starlight Drive-In around 7:30 p.m. Sunday when they struck a large animal with their Honda Accord.

“The moose came to rest on the vehicle’s windshield causing both the driver and female passenger many cuts and abrasions,” Cpl. Gerry Kovaks said.

Both occupants were taken to Vernon Jubilee Hospital by ambulance for treatment of their non-life threatening injuries.

The moose was killed in the accident, and the couple’s car was damaged beyond repair.

"You have a moose that is anywhere from 500 to 1,000 pounds landing on your windshield. These people were lucky,” Kovaks said.

North Okanagan RCMP are reminding the motoring public to be aware of the wildlife that frequents local highways at this time of year.

To contact the reporter for this story, email Charlotte Helston at chelston@infotelnews.ca, call (250)309-5230 or tweet @charhelston.