There are guiding practices for drivers when wildlife crosses the road. Recognizing animal activity and adapting driving behavior can reduce risk for everyone on board. When signs indicate an animal present ahead such as moose, cows, pigs, sheep, or goats, immediate braking is often necessary because these animals tend to pause in the path after noticing a vehicle and may not back away quickly. Slowing down early gives drivers more control and time to react.[citation: Traffic Safety Authority]
In some cases, dogs and foxes may move onto or along roadways as vehicles approach. It is important to assess the situation calmly and adjust speed accordingly while maintaining a clear path for oncoming traffic.[citation: Road Safety Institute]
Hares can emerge at night, sometimes stepping into the beam of headlights. They may perceive the illuminated area as a barrier and hesitate at the edge of the light. In such moments, the prudent response is to brake gently, switch to dipped headlights, and once the vehicle slows, briefly switch off the headlights to allow the animal to move to the shaded area. When the eyes no longer reflect light, the animal tends to leave the roadway. Always proceed with caution and be ready to re-engage low beams as visibility improves.[citation: Night Driving Guide]
Small road inhabitants like rodents and hedgehogs can be unpredictable and cause traction loss if struck or if drivers swerve suddenly. The safest approach is not to swerve but to ease off the accelerator and maintain a steady, controlled path. If avoiding movement is unavoidable, the priority is to slow gradually and create space for a safe stop. [citation: Vehicle Handling Handbook]
Overall, attempting to bypass an animal that is present on the roadway is not advised. Slowing down provides the best chance to stop safely or to let the animal vacate the lane without abrupt maneuvers. In the event of an unavoidable collision, wearing a seatbelt dramatically reduces the risk of serious injury to everyone inside the vehicle.[citation: Automotive Safety Standard]
Vote – win Lada!
Participants are invited to take part in the Behind the Wheel Grand Prix poll to help select the year’s standout car introductions. The exercise aims to capture reader preferences while highlighting fresh automotive options.[citation: Consumer Electronics & Automotive Pulse]
As a token of appreciation for time spent, a drawing will be held among survey respondents who complete the questionnaire. Three prizes will be awarded, with entries open to all who finish the survey before the close of the poll window. This keeps the process fair and exciting for a broad audience.[citation: Sweepstakes Policy]