A wildlife accident can be unpredictable and dangerous, both for the animal and for the driver. In such a stressful situation, it is important to act prudently in order to avoid further damage and ensure the safety of everyone involved. A wildlife accident, like any ordinary traffic accident, can happen at any time of day or night. Here are some useful tips and advice to help you deal with such a situation in the best possible way.

Keep calm and stop immediately

If a wildlife accident occurs, it is essential to remain calm. Panic can lead to rash actions and make the situation worse. Stopping the vehicle immediately is essential in order to be able to make an accurate assessment of the situation. If the deer steps onto the road directly in front of the vehicle and it is foreseeable that it will not be possible to brake in time, the driver must under no circumstances attempt to avoid the animal. This can have far more serious consequences. It is therefore better to hold the steering wheel straight and firmly than to risk a serious traffic accident with many victims.

Switch on hazard warning lights and set up a warning triangle

In order to warn other road users and safeguard the accident scene, the hazard warning lights should be switched on and the warning triangle set up at a sufficient distance from the accident scene. This minimizes the risk of secondary accidents and makes the work of the emergency services easier. Of course, this advice also applies to all other types of traffic accidents; securing the scene of the accident is a top priority in order to increase your own safety and avoid subsequent accidents.

Secure the accident site and pay attention to animals

Care should also be taken when dealing with injured animals. Wild animals can react unpredictably in stressful situations. Keep your distance and avoid touching the animal to prevent injuries. If necessary, call the local wildlife rescue service or the police for further instructions.

Inform the police

In many countries, it is a legal requirement to report wildlife accidents to the police. Therefore, contact the local police station immediately, describe the circumstances of the accident and follow their instructions. This is not only important for legal reasons, but also enables efficient assistance on site.

No initiative with injured animals

It is tempting to take care of injured animals, but this should be left to experts. Wild animals can be unpredictable and fast movements or loud noises can increase their fear. Leave the rescue and care of injured animals to the appropriate professionals.

Document the accident

Take photos of the scene of the accident to document the damage. This can be helpful for insurance claims and police investigations. Make a note of the date, time, how the accident happened and any witnesses.

Have the animal carcass removed

Following the accident, it is important to have the animal carcass removed properly. This should be done by the relevant authorities or hunters to avoid further danger and damage.

Conclusion: Prudent action is crucial

In the event of a wildlife accident, level-headed action is crucial. Keeping calm, ensuring the safety of everyone involved and taking the right measures - these are the keys to dealing with unforeseen situations in the best possible way. Remember that expert help is often indispensable in such situations to ensure the welfare of the animals and all road users.