The incident occurred during the night of November 2–3 near Łaziska (Bolesławiec municipality). The driver of a Ford, a 39-year-old resident of Złotoryja County, hit a wild boar. Fortunately, the driver was not seriously injured.

This is another incident of this kind on our roads. Below is some valuable information on the subject.

What should you do when you 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 very serious danger. Especially now, when they are looking for food.

This can happen not only in the forest itself, but also near entrances to towns—wherever there is even a little greenery.

What should you do if you hit a wild animal?

Remember that when such an accident occurs on the road, you must not leave the injured animal to fend for itself. There are facilities where it can receive professional help and have the opportunity to return to its natural environment.

First, secure the scene so that it does not pose a danger to other road users. Then notify the emergency services. 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 is to check it on a smartphone or give the number from a 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 may result in a fine or imprisonment. A severe punishment is предусмотрed for drivers who deliberately hit an animal. Unfortunately, this does happen.

How can you avoid a collision?

  • Above all, slow down and carefully observe the road and its surroundings. If the animal notices you, it should move out of your way. If it is not frightened, you can try using the horn and flashing your lights. (You should also be aware that lights may attract the animal’s attention and immobilize it directly in front of your approaching car.)
  • Reducing your speed and carefully driving around the animal is the best solution.
  • You should not get out of the car to scare the animal away, as it may be aggressive.

What do the officers advise?

  • When traveling on forest roads, it is advisable to follow the principle of limited trust.
  • Road administrators put up signs warning of wild animals in places where animal movement is heavy. However, remember that these signs do not apply to animals, which choose their own routes. (Many people travel at night because they value lighter traffic on the road. However, in forest areas, animal activity increases significantly at that time.)

Photo: archive