Wildlife Safety
Sharing the Road: Being Aware of Wildlife and Handling Wildlife Road Traffic Accidents.
As a responsible and conscientious driver, it's important to be mindful of more than just other vehicles on the road.
Wildlife can often be a surprising and unpredictable presence, and it's crucial to know how to react if you encounter an animal while driving. Not only does this protect the welfare of the animals, but it also ensures your own safety and that of your passengers.
Being Aware of Wildlife on the Road:
1. Stay Vigilant: Keep an eye out for wildlife warning signs and be especially cautious during dawn and dusk when many animals are most active.
2. Reduce Speed: Slowing down gives you more time to react if an animal suddenly appears on the road.
3. Use High Beams: When driving in areas known for wildlife activity, use high beams at night to increase visibility and spot animals from a greater distance.
4. Be Prepared to Stop: If you see an animal near or on the road, be prepared to stop and allow it to pass.
What to Do When Involved in a Wildlife Road Traffic Accident:
1. Safely Pull Over: If you hit an animal, safely pull over to the side of the road and turn on your hazard lights.
2. Assess the Situation: First, ensure that it's safe to exit your vehicle. Then check on the animal, but be cautious as injured animals may be frightened and could pose a danger.
3. Contact Authorities: If the animal is injured, contact local animal control or wildlife rescue organisations for assistance. If the animal is dead, report the incident to local authorities so the animal can be removed from the road.
4. Proceed with Caution: After handling the situation, proceed with caution, being aware that other animals may be in the vicinity.
Link to The Fox Project UK:
We encourage our community to support wildlife rescue efforts. The Fox Project UK is a dedicated fox rescue charity that provides care for injured and orphaned foxes. By visiting their website you can learn more about their work and find out how to contribute to their important cause.By taking these precautions and knowing how to respond in the event of a wildlife road traffic accident, we can all play a part in preserving the well-being of both humans and wildlife on our roads.
Nicki Townsend - Fundraising
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