What To Do After You Crash With an Animal on the Road

Summary

Each year, hundreds of thousands of animals are hit by vehicles, with many succumbing to their injuries. However, timely intervention can save lives. This article outlines crucial steps to take if you accidentally hit an animal on the road, from immediate actions to contacting authorities and providing first aid. Learn how to handle these situations responsibly and potentially save an animal's life.

The Scope of the Problem

According to the Federal Highway Administration, approximately 1-2 million large animals are hit by vehicles annually in the United States alone. This figure doesn't even account for smaller animals like birds, cats, and dogs. The impact on wildlife and domestic animals is significant, and knowing how to respond can mitigate some of the damage.

Immediate Actions to Take

1. Stop Safely

The first thing you should do is stop your vehicle safely. Do not leave your car in the middle of the road; instead, pull over to the side. This ensures your safety and the safety of other drivers.

2. Assess the Situation

Approach the animal cautiously. Sudden movements can scare it, causing it to lash out or flee, potentially worsening its injuries. If the animal is dead, move it to the side of the road to prevent further accidents. Immediately call local authorities to handle the situation.

3. If the Animal is Alive

If the animal is still alive, your next steps are crucial:

• Call for Help: Contact a veterinarian or animal rescue service. If you don't have their number, call the police.
• Provide First Aid: Use a towel or cloth to clean any visible wounds. Apply a bandage to control bleeding. Avoid moving the animal's neck or spine to prevent further injury.

Providing First Aid

Cleaning and Bandaging

Use a clean cloth to wipe away blood and dirt from the wound. Apply a bandage to control bleeding. Excessive blood loss can be fatal, so this step is critical.

Avoiding Further Injury

Be extremely cautious not to move the animal's neck or spine. These areas are particularly vulnerable, and improper handling can lead to fatal injuries.

Keeping the Animal Warm

Cover the animal with a blanket, jacket, or any available cloth to keep it warm. This can help prevent shock, which is a common issue in injured animals.

Waiting for Help

After providing first aid, wait for professional help to arrive. Keep a safe distance to avoid causing additional stress to the animal. Your primary role at this point is to ensure the animal remains as comfortable and stable as possible until help arrives.

Prevention is Key

While knowing how to respond is essential, prevention is even more critical. According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, animal-vehicle collisions peak in the fall, particularly in November. Being extra vigilant during these times can help reduce the likelihood of an accident.

Tips for Avoiding Animal Collisions

• Drive Slowly in High-Risk Areas: Areas with dense wildlife populations or near forests are high-risk zones.
• Use High Beams: When driving at night, use high beams to spot animals from a distance.
• Be Extra Cautious During Dawn and Dusk: Many animals are most active during these times.

Conclusion

Accidents involving animals are unfortunate but often unavoidable. Knowing how to respond can save lives and prevent further harm. Always stop safely, assess the situation, and provide immediate first aid while waiting for professional help. Most importantly, take preventive measures to avoid such accidents in the first place.

For more information on how to handle animal-vehicle collisions, you can refer to resources from the American Veterinary Medical Association and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.

By following these guidelines, you can make a significant difference in the outcome of such unfortunate events.