Drivers are being told what to do if they accidentally collide with animals when driving around the UK this summer.
With 14,649 animals reportedly killed on UK roads each year*, the motoring experts from LeaseLoco.com are offering advice to help keep both drivers and animals safe on the roads.
Those driving in rural areas or late at night should be extra mindful that they might come across wildlife.
Motorists are advised to reduce their speed and remain alert, particularly on country roads with 60mph limits, where animal collisions are more common.**
The experts warn that drivers who do come across animals should slow down and avoid any sudden or loud movements such as swerving, braking suddenly, using the horn or revving the engine.
This can frighten the animal and cause them to panic and act unpredictably, which could put both you and the animal in danger.
Remain calm and wait for the animal to pass and clear the road before gently driving off.
In the event of a collision, the correct course of action depends on the animal involved.
For dogs, cattle, horses, pigs, goats, sheep, donkeys and mules, drivers are legally required to report the incident to the police.
Failure to do so may result in penalty points, fines, or even imprisonment under section 170 of the Road Traffic Act 1988.
Hitting an animal can be distressing, but it’s important to remain calm. Pull over when it is safe to do so, switch on hazard lights, and check that all passengers are unharmed.
If safe to do so, motorists are also advised to take photographs of the scene and the animal to support any necessary reports or insurance claims.
Although it is not a legal requirement to report collisions involving other animals such as cats, foxes, deer or badgers, contacting the RSPCA or a local wildlife rescue centre may help save the animal’s life.
It’s also recommended to report larger animals like deer to the police or local council so that they can be easily removed, as they can obstruct the road and pose a hazard.
If a domestic animal is involved, check for a collar, as this may help identify the owner.
Notifying the owner can provide closure and prevent unnecessary distress from not knowing what happened to their pet.
John Wilmot, CEO of car leasing comparison site LeaseLoco.com said: “Encounters with animals on the road can be stressful but staying calm and knowing what to do is key.
“If you’re travelling in rural areas this summer, be prepared and always look well ahead for animals and slow down when approaching one.
“Swerving to avoid them can lead to more serious accidents, so it’s safer to brake in a controlled way and gently come to a full stop if you need to and wait for the animal to pass.
“Sudden movements and loud noises from the car can frighten and startle animals which can be really dangerous for everyone so avoid revving the engine and beeping the horn at all costs.
“If you spot animals like cattle or deer, wait a few minutes to ensure that the rest of their herd isn’t about to appear behind them and drive cautiously.
“If you have hit an animal, it’s really important that you report the incident to the council, police, or the RSPCA. You could potentially save the animal’s life and help keep other road users safe.”