Car accidents are one of the most common causes of death for many native wildlife species. Although animals suffer from traffic collisions year-round, the shift during daylight saving time causes visibility in the morning or evening rush hour to change in both spring and autumn, leading to more accidents. FOUR PAWS advises particular caution during these times and throughout the year to avoid any potential accidents.

This is how you can reduce the risk of accidents involving game:

• Many animals prefer to be on the move at night or at dusk. Be especially careful at these times of the day.
• Poor visibility increases the risk of accidents. Adjust your speed to the visibility conditions.
• Drivers should take the danger sign 'Wildlife Crossing' seriously, reduce their speed and keep an eye on the edge of the road.
• When an animal is spotted, drivers should use dipped headlights to avoid blinding them. Blinded animals often freeze and stop moving.
• Many animals are travelling in groups: If one appears, you must expect more animals. Therefore, do not accelerate again immediately after an animal has crossed the road.

What to do in the event of a wildlife accident:

• If an accident has occurred, it should be reported to the police as an injured or dead animal on the roadway poses the risk of further accidents.  Reporting the incident ensures that the injured animal receives appropriate assistance as quickly as possible.
• Even if the animal appears uninjured and manages to flee, you should still report the incident. It's possible for animals to suffer internal injuries, severe head trauma, or broken bones, which can cause unnecessary suffering if they are not located promptly.
• If the animal is still alive but too badly injured to escape, the police will contact the nearest wildlife centre. They will come to the scene of the accident to safely take care of the animal.
• Deceased animals should only be removed from the roadway after consulting with the responsible hunting leaseholder. This is important to prevent additional accidents.
• It is strongly advised not to rescue the animal on your own in order not to endanger the animal and humans any further.