When the days become shorter and dusk sets in earlier, being on the road becomes increasingly more dangerous.
While autumn is a gorgeous season, it’s also a time when the risk of hitting deer and other wildlife with your car is much higher, Germany’s Auto Club Europe (ACE) warns.
In the worst case, collisions with wildlife can be fatal for both the animal and the driver. In Germany alone, thousands of people are injured in wildlife-related accidents every year.
Maybe that’s less surprising if you consider that colliding with a red deer at a speed of 60 km/h, for example, has an impact equivalent of five tonnes, or the weight of a fully grown elephant, Germany’s ACV auto club says.
So trying not to hit them when spotting wild animals on the road is definitely your best bet, though sometimes that’s easier said than done.
If an animal darts into the road ahead of you, slow down immediately while keeping an eye on any cars behind you. Don’t brake firmly unless you have to.
If there’s time, switch off your high beams so as not to blind the animal and, if necessary, stop.
Try honking to scare them away, but be aware that more animals might be around, such as young ones following their mother.
Never try to swerve around wildlife as you might end up hitting other vehicles or trees.
If there’s no time to slow down, brake as hard as you can while firmly holding the steering wheel.
The risk is greatest on roads that pass through forests, meadows and fields, particularly if those roads are newly built, as animals stick to their usual paths.
According to the ACV, the risk of encounters with wild animals is highest between 6 and 8 am and 5 and 8 pm.
You should also look out for signs that warn motorists about possible wildlife presence.
In general, try to be attentive and stick to speed limits, while scanning the edge of the road for wildlife about to cross.
Keep in mind that your reaction time may be longer when visibility is poor, for example when driving in rain or fog.
Meanwhile wet and slippery roads covered with leaves increase the braking distance.
If you do end up hitting an animal, the most important thing is to keep calm.
Switch on the hazard lights, put on a safety vest and secure the scene of the accident with the warning triangle.
Call the emergency services if someone was injured and provide first aid if necessary.
Do not touch the animal without gloves if it was killed in the collision and keep your distance if it’s still alive, as they could panic and hurt you.
Report the accident to the police if you can’t remove the animal from the road yourself in absolute safety. Remain in the area until help arrives.
Never take a wild animal with you, the ACE says, even if they are injured. Instead, call someone with the proper training and equipment, like a vet.
