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Animal Related Crashes: 7800 Last Year! Your Guide to Safety
As the final harvest rolls in and days shorten, a less welcome trend emerges on our roadways: a significant spike in animal related crashes. Last year alone, a staggering 7800 incidents involving wildlife collisions were reported across the state. This isn’t just a statistic; it represents real dangers, costly damages, and a heightened risk for drivers and passengers. Understanding why these encounters increase and how to mitigate the risk is crucial for everyone sharing the road.
Understanding the Surge in Animal Related Crashes
Why do we see such a dramatic increase in wildlife encounters during this specific time of year? Several factors contribute to this dangerous seasonal trend, making it essential for drivers to be extra vigilant.
Why Harvest Season Increases Risk
The conclusion of harvest season dramatically alters the landscape for many animals. Fields that once offered cover and food sources are now barren, forcing wildlife to move in search of new sustenance and shelter. This displacement often leads them across roads and highways, directly into the path of unsuspecting vehicles. Additionally, mating seasons for certain animals, like deer, coincide with autumn, making them more active and less cautious.
Common Animals Involved in Collisions
While deer are undoubtedly the most frequent culprits in animal related crashes, they are far from the only concern. Drivers should also be aware of:
- Deer: Especially active at dawn and dusk, often traveling in groups.
- Elk & Moose: Less common but incredibly dangerous due to their size and weight.
- Coyotes & Foxes: Often seen near urban fringes, especially at night.
- Raccoons & Opossums: Nocturnal and frequently cross roads in search of food.
- Small Game (rabbits, squirrels): While less hazardous to vehicles, sudden swerving to avoid them can cause accidents.
The Real Dangers of Wildlife Collisions
The impact of striking an animal extends far beyond the initial jolt. These incidents can have serious consequences, both for your vehicle and your personal well-being.
Beyond Vehicle Damage: Personal Injury Risks
A collision with an animal, particularly a large one like a deer or elk, can cause significant structural damage to your vehicle. This damage can range from shattered windshields and dented body panels to compromised steering and deployed airbags. More critically, passengers can suffer severe injuries, including whiplash, broken bones, and head trauma, especially if the animal breaches the passenger compartment. It’s not uncommon for drivers to swerve to avoid an animal, leading to secondary accidents involving other vehicles or fixed objects.
Financial Impact and Insurance Considerations
The financial burden of animal related crashes can be substantial. Repairs can easily run into thousands of dollars, and even seemingly minor damage can hide underlying issues. Many comprehensive auto insurance policies cover animal collisions, but it’s vital to understand your deductible and coverage limits. Filing a claim can also impact your insurance premiums, making prevention even more appealing.
Essential Strategies to Prevent Animal Related Crashes
While you can’t control wildlife, you can control your driving habits to significantly reduce your risk of a collision. Proactive measures are your best defense.
Proactive Driving Habits
Adopting a few key habits can make a world of difference when navigating areas prone to wildlife activity:
- Stay Alert: Always scan the road ahead and the shoulders for any signs of movement.
- Slow Down: Reducing your speed gives you more time to react. This is especially important at dawn, dusk, and in areas with “deer crossing” signs.
- Use High Beams: When safe and legal, use your high beams to increase visibility, but dim them for oncoming traffic.
- Watch for Herds: If you see one animal, assume there are more nearby. Animals often travel in groups.
- Honk Your Horn: A quick blast of your horn might scare animals away, but don’t rely solely on this.
- Avoid Swerving: If a collision is imminent, it’s often safer to brake firmly and stay in your lane than to swerve, which can lead to a more dangerous loss of control or a head-on collision.
For more tips on safe driving practices, consider reviewing resources from organizations like the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
What to Do If a Collision is Unavoidable
Sometimes, despite your best efforts, an animal collision is unavoidable. If this happens, remember to:
- Brake firmly and maintain control of your steering wheel.
- Stay in your lane if possible; swerving can cause a more serious accident.
- Release the brake after impact if you are still in danger of hitting another object or vehicle.
Post-Collision Steps: What Comes Next?
If you’ve been involved in an animal collision, knowing the correct steps to take afterward can ensure your safety and streamline the insurance process.
Reporting the Incident
After ensuring your safety and checking for injuries to yourself or passengers, it’s crucial to report the incident. Contact local law enforcement or your state’s highway patrol, especially if there’s significant vehicle damage, personal injury, or if the animal is blocking traffic. Do not approach an injured animal; they can be unpredictable and dangerous. Your state’s Department of Transportation or wildlife agency may also offer specific guidelines for reporting wildlife collisions.
Vehicle Assessment and Repair
Document the scene with photos of the animal (if safe), your vehicle’s damage, and the surrounding area. Exchange information with any witnesses. Once safe, move your vehicle off the road if possible. Contact your insurance company as soon as you can to report the claim. They will guide you through the process of getting your vehicle assessed and repaired. Understanding your policy is key; resources like the Insurance Information Institute can provide general guidance on auto insurance claims.
Stay Safe on the Roads
The rise in animal related crashes during this season serves as a powerful reminder for heightened awareness on our roads. By understanding the risks and adopting proactive driving habits, we can all contribute to safer journeys for ourselves, our passengers, and the wildlife around us. Drive cautiously, stay alert, and be prepared for the unexpected.
Stay informed and drive safely.
With harvest season ending, animal related crashes are on the rise. Last year saw 7800 incidents. Learn why these collisions increase, the risks involved, and essential tips to prevent them and stay safe on the road.
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