The incident occurred on November 17, in the late afternoon, in Wykroty (Nowogrodziec gmina). The driver of a BMW, a 31-year-old resident of Bolesławiec gmina, hit a hind. Fortunately, the man did not suffer any serious injuries.

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 threat. Especially now, when animals are looking for food.

This scenario can occur not only in the forest itself, but also at city entrances—wherever there is even a small amount of greenery.

What should you do if you hit a wild animal?

Let us remember that when such an accident occurs on the road, the injured animal should not be left to fend for itself. There are centres where it can receive professional help and have the chance to return to its natural environment.

First, the scene must be secured so that it does not pose a danger to other road users. Then the authorities should be notified. If the incident occurred in a city, 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 by giving the number from a kilometre marker 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 offence. It may result in a fine or imprisonment. A severe penalty is предусмотрена 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 us, it should leave the road. If it is not frightened, we can try using the horn and flashing the headlights. (We should also be aware that headlights may attract the animal's attention and immobilise it directly in front of our approaching car.)
  • Reducing speed and carefully passing 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 travelling on forest roads, it is worth following the principle of limited trust
  • Road administrators install animal-warning signs in places where animal movement is heavy. However, remember that animals are not bound by these signs and choose the roads along which they move themselves. (Many people travel at night because they value lighter traffic on the road. However, in forested areas, animal movement increases significantly at that time).