The incident occurred on Monday, September 16, before 11:00 p.m., on the road between Krzyżowa and Gromadka. The driver of a Mazda passenger car, a 43-year-old resident of Bolesławiec County, collided with a wild boar.
The animal died. The driver was unharmed.
Firefighters from KP PSP Bolesławiec, volunteer firefighters from Krzyżowa, as well as police officers, took part in the operation.
This is another incident of this kind on our roads. Below is some valuable information on the subject.
What should we do when we spot an animal on the road?
Every driver should remember to exercise particular caution and pay attention to signs warning of hazards. Animals running onto the road can pose a serious threat. Especially now, when animals are looking for food.
This scenario can occur not only in the forest itself, but also near entrances to towns—wherever there is even a small amount of greenery.
What should we do if we hit a wild animal?
Remember that when such an accident occurs on the road, the injured animal should not simply be left on its own. There are centers where it can receive professional help and have the opportunity to return to its natural environment.
First, the scene must be secured so that it does not pose a threat to other road users. Then the emergency services should be notified. If the incident occurred in a town, call the Municipal Police (75 644 79 90) or the police (997). If it occurred outside a built-up area, call 112.
When calling for help, the driver should provide the location. The easiest way to check it is on a smartphone or to give the number from the kilometer post beside the road.
Do not be afraid to call for help. There is no penalty for accidentally hitting an animal. However, fleeing the scene and leaving the animal without assistance is an offense. It is punishable by a fine or imprisonment. A severe penalty is предусмотрed for drivers who deliberately hit an animal. Unfortunately, this does happen.
How can a collision be avoided?
- Above all, you should slow down and carefully observe the road and its surroundings. If the animal notices us, it should move out of our way. If it is not frightened, we can try using the horn and flashing the lights. (You should also be aware that the lights may attract the animal’s attention and immobilize it directly in front of the approaching car)
- Reducing speed and carefully driving around the animal is the best solution
- We should not get out of the car to scare the animal away, as it may be aggressive.
What do the uniformed officers advise?
- When traveling on forest roads, it is worth applying the principle of limited trust.
- Road administrators install signs warning of wild animals in places where animal movement is heavy. However, remember that these signs do not bind animals, which choose their own routes. (Many people travel at night because of the lighter traffic on the road. However, in forested areas, animal movement increases significantly at this time).