Car accidents are one of the leading causes of death for many native wildlife species. The wildlife station in Hamburg alone takes in around 300 animals injured in car accidents every year. Especially in autumn, the rutting season of red and fallow deer leads to increased deer crossings. Although animals suffer from traffic accidents all year round, the number of victims peaks in autumn. The mating season of red and fallow deer leads to increased wildlife traffic. Combined with the time change in the northern hemisphere, which goes back by one hour with the end of daylight saving time, many animals become victims of traffic accidents. advises extra caution at this time and throughout the year to avoid possible accidents.
Here’s how you can reduce the risk of wildlife accidents:
- Many animals prefer to be out and about at night or at dusk. Be extra vigilant at these times.
- In addition to deer crossing, poor visibility in autumn increases the risk of accidents. Adapt your speed to the visibility conditions.
- Motorists should take the “wild crossing” danger sign seriously, slow down and keep an eye on the edge of the road.
- As soon as game comes into your field of vision, you should switch to low beam so that the animals are not dazzled.
- Many animals travel in groups: if one appears, other animals must be expected. Therefore, do not accelerate again immediately after an animal has crossed the road.
- Risky evasive maneuvers are strongly discouraged, as this also endangers other road users.
Tips on correct behavior in the event of accidents involving wildlife:
- However, once the animal and vehicle are on a collision course, an accident can usually no longer be prevented.
- If the accident has occurred, the scene of the accident must be secured immediately and the police called.
- The dead animal may only be cleared from the road after consultation with the responsible hunting tenant in order to prevent further accidents.
- If the animal is alive but too badly injured to flee, police will contact the nearest wildlife sanctuary. They pick it up at the scene of the accident and take care of it professionally.
- It is strongly discouraged to carry out an independent rescue in order not to further endanger animals and humans.