TDOT Warns Motorists About Black Bears Along Byways

Summertime is here, which means warm weather, time spent outdoors, and.... black bears on the highway.

The Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT) has issued a warning for motorists to be on the lookout for black bears on scenic byways. In Tennessee, there are between 5,000-6,000 black bears, with the majority in East Tennessee.

According to the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency, there are some guidelines that can help drivers minimize dangerous bear encounters:

• Never feed or approach bears
• When camping in bear country, keep all food stored in a vehicle and away from tents and dispose of food waste in the proper receptacles
• If you see a black bear from a distance, alter your route of travel, return the way you came, or wait until it leaves the area
• Make your presence known by yelling and shouting at the bear to scare it away
• If approached by a bear, stand your ground, raise your arms to appear larger, yell, and throw rocks or sticks until they leave the area
• Never run from a black bear. This will often trigger its instinct to chase
• If a black bear attacks, fight back aggressively and do not play dead
• Use pepper spray, sticks, rocks, or anything you can find to defend yourself. If cornered or threatened, bears may slap the ground, “pop” their jaws, or “huff” as a warning
• If you see these behaviors, you are too close. Slowly back away while always facing the bear

Owner-operators: make sure you're staying vigilant as the temperatures rise and wildlife starts to get more active. Being alert and cautious can help ensure a safe journey for everyone on the road.