As we read on the profile of the Nadleśnictwo Bolesławiec, the incident occurred between Osiecznica and Bolesławiec. The foresters wrote:
[…] a passenger car collided with a moose. Fortunately, the people were unharmed. Unfortunately, the moose had no chance...
They added:
Autumn is approaching rapidly, bringing more difficult road conditions with it. Take care of yourselves and the animals—they are in their own environment...
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 animals are searching for food.
This can happen not only deep in the forest, but also at city entrances—wherever there is even a little greenery.
What should you do if you hit a wild animal or see one lying on the road?
Let us remember that when such an accident occurs on the road, the injured animal should not simply be left on its own. 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 emergency services 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 is to check it on a smartphone or give the number from the kilometer post by 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 provided 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 headlights. (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 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 following the principle of limited trust. Road administrators put up warning signs about animals in places where animal movement is particularly heavy. Let us remember, however, 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 forested areas, animal movement increases significantly at this time).