Summer Driving Hazards: Wildlife on the Road

Summer is a time when wildlife activity increases, leading to a higher likelihood of encountering animals on the road. These encounters can be hazardous, causing accidents and endangering both drivers and animals. At the Law Offices of Kyle E. Koester, LLC, we emphasize the importance of being aware of wildlife while driving and taking steps to avoid accidents. This article provides tips for avoiding accidents caused by animals on the road, supported by statistics and Georgia law.

The Increase in Wildlife Activity

During the summer months, many animals are more active, often crossing roads in search of food, water, or mates. This increased activity coincides with peak travel times, raising the risk of vehicle-wildlife collisions.

Statistics:

• According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), there are approximately 1.5 million deer-vehicle collisions in the United States each year, resulting in over 200 human fatalities and tens of thousands of injuries.
• The Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT) reports a significant increase in wildlife-related accidents during the summer, with deer being the most common animal involved.

Georgia Laws on Vehicle-Wildlife Collisions

In Georgia, drivers are expected to exercise due care to avoid collisions with wildlife. While there are no specific laws targeting wildlife collisions, general traffic laws under Georgia Code (O.C.G.A. § 40-6-241) require drivers to avoid endangering life, limb, or property, which includes taking precautions to prevent accidents involving animals.

Case Law Example:

• In Smith v. State, 284 Ga. 229 (2008), the Georgia Supreme Court reinforced the need for drivers to be vigilant and take reasonable steps to avoid accidents, including those involving wildlife. This case highlights the importance of driver responsibility in preventing collisions.

Tips for Avoiding Wildlife-Related Accidents

1. Stay Alert and Scan the Road

Being vigilant and scanning the road ahead and to the sides can help you spot animals before they enter your path. Pay particular attention during dawn and dusk when many animals are most active.

Tips:

• Use your high beams when driving in rural areas or poorly lit roads to improve visibility.
• Look for the shine of animal eyes reflecting headlights, which can alert you to their presence.

2. Reduce Speed in High-Risk Areas

Slowing down in areas known for high wildlife activity, such as rural roads, forests, and near bodies of water, can give you more time to react if an animal suddenly appears.

Tips:

• Observe and obey wildlife crossing signs, which indicate areas with higher chances of animal crossings.
• Reduce speed in areas with dense vegetation close to the road, as animals can emerge suddenly.

For more on maintaining safe speeds, visit our article on The Role of Speed Limits in Summer Driving Safety.

3. Use Defensive Driving Techniques

Defensive driving involves anticipating potential hazards and being prepared to take evasive action. This is particularly useful in preventing wildlife collisions.

Tips:

• Keep a safe following distance to allow more reaction time if the vehicle ahead suddenly brakes.
• Avoid swerving, which can lead to losing control of your vehicle. Instead, brake firmly and stay in your lane.

4. Be Cautious in High Animal Activity Periods

Certain times of the day and seasons see increased wildlife activity. Being aware of these periods can help you stay prepared.

Tips:

• Be extra cautious during early morning and evening hours when many animals, especially deer, are more active.
• During mating and migration seasons, expect higher wildlife activity and plan your travel accordingly.

5. Educate Young and Inexperienced Drivers

Teens and new drivers may be less experienced in dealing with wildlife on the road. Educate them about the risks and proper responses to encountering animals while driving.

Tips:

• Include information about wildlife hazards in driver education programs.
• Practice driving in rural and wooded areas under supervision to build experience.

For more tips on teaching teens safe driving habits, refer to our article on How to Teach Your Teen Safe Driving Habits This Summer.

What to Do If You Encounter an Animal

Despite your best efforts, you might still encounter an animal on the road. Knowing how to respond can prevent an accident or minimize its severity.

1. Slow Down and Honk Your Horn

If you see an animal ahead, slow down and honk your horn to try and scare it off the road. Many animals will move away from loud noises.

Tips:

• Do not assume the animal will move; be prepared to stop if necessary.
• Use your horn in short bursts rather than a prolonged honk.

2. Do Not Swerve

Swerving to avoid an animal can lead to a more severe accident, such as hitting another vehicle or losing control of your car.

Tips:

• Brake firmly and stay in your lane if an impact seems unavoidable.
• Aim for the spot the animal is coming from, not where it is going, as animals often freeze or move unpredictably.

3. Report the Incident

If you hit a large animal, pull over safely and report the incident to local authorities. This can help prevent further accidents and ensure injured animals receive help if needed.

Tips:

• Use your hazard lights to alert other drivers if you need to stop on the road.
• Contact your insurance company to report any damage to your vehicle.

Legal Support for Wildlife-Related Accidents

If you or a loved one has been involved in an accident caused by wildlife, understanding your legal rights and options is crucial. At the Law Offices of Kyle E. Koester, LLC, we specialize in representing accident victims and can provide the guidance needed to navigate the legal complexities.

For more information on legal recourse after an accident, refer to our detailed guide on Legal Rights After a Summer Car Accident.

Conclusion

Encounters with wildlife on the road can be dangerous, but by staying alert, reducing speed, and using defensive driving techniques, you can significantly reduce the risk of accidents. For personalized legal assistance and to ensure your rights are protected, contact the Law Offices of Kyle E. Koester, LLC. We are here to support you through every step of the process.

Sources:

1. Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS)
2. Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT)
3. Official Code of Georgia Annotated (O.C.G.A.)
4. Georgia Supreme Court Case: Smith v. State, 284 Ga. 229 (2008)

Stay informed by exploring our 100 Deadliest Days of Summer campaign, and drive safely this summer!