Motorists have to be attentive all the time, not only to the risk posed by other road users but also to the danger of animals that may come in the way. At times, animals find their way out from the woods on to the highways and residential areas, putting them in the path of moving vehicles. Encountering animals on the city roads proves to be extremely dangerous. You need to be vigilant while driving in order to avoid any such accidents.
Animals can be highly unpredictable and it is not always possible to completely avoid a collision. But as a motorist, you can do certain things that will reduce the chances of you being involved in an animal vehicle collision.
1. Beware of the surroundings
You need to look out for signboards indicating the presence of wildlife on the roads. In case you come across such signs, it is better to stay alert, slow down and watch out for any dangers. In the suburbs, there is more probability of animals being spotted on roads. Thus, while driving through such areas you should be more cautious and watch out for any animals coming in the way.
2. Use a night vision system
Some animals are most active at night times -- when the drivers find it difficult to see. At such times, you should be more vigilant and cautious because the chances of animal vehicle collision are the greatest due to low lighting. Having a night vision system like Lanmodo Vast Pro Automotive Night Vision System can be of great help. This night vision system has a near infrared which is capable of providing 1080p image and wide-angle vision of 45 degrees. Therefore you can see the animals on the road and take necessary precautions while driving in animal-populated areas at night. The Lanmodo night vision system gives you a very clear idea of what lies ahead of your vehicle and save you from animal collision.
3. Watch for glowing eyes
One of the most effective ways to avoid colliding with animals is to keep your eyes on the road. While you drive during the night, watch for glowing eyes. Many animals' eyes glow when vehicle headlight falls on them.
4. Use your horn
If you see an animal standing in the middle of the road, use your horn and try to scare away the animal. If not, try flashing the lights to encourage it to leave the area before you proceed. By honking and flashing you will also alert the other motorist following behind.
5. Slow down after you see the animal
It is best practice to slow down and observe the speed limit if you don't want any animal collision. Give yourself enough time to put the brakes, just in case any animal comes in the way. Pay close attention to the animal warning signs too.
How to deal with animal collision if it takes place?
- Stay in control
In spite of taking all the precautionary measures, animal collisions do happen. In such a situation, you need to stay calm and firmly apply the brakes and maintain your lane. Trying to swerve out can get you into more trouble, so the best thing to do is regain the control of your car and pull over. And most importantly, don't forget to turn on the hazard lights. If you have hit a large animal, lean away from the center of the car and towards the door. This is because if the animals hit head-on, they usually tend to roll over. This can to the windshield of the car getting crushed.
- Inspect the animal and your car
If you have collided with an animal, inspect the animal first. But make sure you do not do this on the roadway. Pull away from the roadway and call for help if required. Also, inspect your car to see for damages.
- Contact the insurance company
Last but not least inform your insurance company about the accident. Your insurance agent will guide you through the steps of filing for the claim. In case of comprehensive insurance of your car, the animal collision may be covered. However, one thing to keep in mind here is that insurance companies may not pay for damages without a police complaint. So you first need to file a complaint and then proceed for the insurance.
Make sure to share such useful information with young drivers too. Reports indicate that young drivers in the age group of 16-24 years have the highest rate of animal vehicle collisions..
