The incident occurred on Saturday, February 20, in the village of Łaziska. The driver of the Seat, a 27-year-old resident of Bolesławiec, collided with a wild boar. Fortunately, the driver did not suffer any serious injuries.

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 informing them of hazards. Wildlife running onto the road can pose a very serious danger, especially now, when animals are searching 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 facilities 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 danger to other road users. Then the services should be notified. If the incident occurred in a city, call the Municipal Police or the police. 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 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 is punishable by 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 move out of our way. If it is not frightened, we can try using the horn and flashing the lights. (We should also be aware that lights may attract the animal's attention and immobilize it directly in front of our approaching car.)
  • Reducing speed and carefully avoiding 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 officers advise?

  • When traveling on forest roads, it is worth following the principle of limited trust.
  • Road administrators install signs warning of wildlife 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, valuing lighter traffic on the road. However, in forested areas, animal activity increases significantly at this time.)

(Header photo: archive).