Accidents Involving Animals Crossing the Street

While humans are usually the cause of automobile accidents, animals can also be dangerous on the road. Many animals trying to cross the road end up colliding with an unsuspecting vehicle. Accidents involving animals can have a major impact on a driver’s car and life. To learn more about what to do following these incidents, consider contacting the Atlanta car accident lawyers at Hall & Lampros, LLP. Their clients have entrusted them with cases that have resulted in over $400 million in settlements and verdicts. Schedule a free consultation by calling (404) 876-8100.

What Animal Causes the Most Road Accidents?

Deer are some of the top animals that cause road accidents, especially in rural and semi-rural Georgia. These accidents can severely hurt drivers and passengers and cause significant vehicle damage. Many times, crashes involving animals occur during the deer mating season in the fall. Deer become more active and are known to dart across roadways. With the state’s large deer population that lives next to highways, these animals are a leading contributor to vehicle accidents in Georgia.

While deer are responsible for most accidents involving animals in Georgia, squirrels, raccoons, and rabbits can also contribute to road accidents. Domestic animals, such as dogs and livestock, that roam freely in rural areas may also end up colliding with vehicles traveling on Georgian roads.

How Many Car Accidents Happen Because of Animals?

The exact number of car accidents caused by animals can be difficult to determine. However, in the United States, about 1 million animal-vehicle collisions occur each year, per the Federal Highway Administration. These collisions result in around 200 human fatalities, thousands of injuries, and extensive property damage. According to the Insurance Information Institute, there were 164 deaths from crashes with animals in 2021.

The true scale of animal-related road accidents is likely much higher than reported. Minor collisions typically go unreported. No matter the exact numbers, animals can and do play a role in road accidents. If you have been involved in an accident, the legal team at Hall & Lampros, LLP, may be able to help.

Are You Supposed To Stop for Animals Crossing the Road?

When encountering animals on the road in Georgia, drivers should exercise caution. For larger wildlife like deer, slow down when you see them near or on the road. Drivers should brake gently and avoid sudden maneuvers to prevent collisions with the animals or with other vehicles.

When animals are on or near the road, using high beams or honking your horn can startle the animals and lead to unpredictable behavior. Some parts of Georgia also have regulations that may require drivers to stop and give the animals the right of way.

What Should You Do if You Come Across Animals Crossing the Road?

When you come across animals crossing the road in Georgia, take action to ensure your own safety, the safety of others, and the well-being of the animals. Consider the following action steps.

Slow Down

Reduce your speed when you see animals on or near the road. By slowing down, you will have more time to react to their sudden movements. Decelerating can prevent sudden, panic-induced maneuvers that can lead to accidents. In addition, the animals may remain calm if the traffic around them is slower.

Keep a Safe Distance

Maintain a safe distance from the animal and, in most cases, avoid getting out of your vehicle to attempt to move it out of your way. Some animals can be unpredictable and may become aggressive.

Yield the Right of Way

Whenever possible and safe, yield the right of way to the animal, allowing it to cross the road without hindrance. Some species may be protected by law, and any interference with their movements can have legal consequences.

Contact Authorities

If the animal is injured or poses a road hazard, contact local authorities. They can take appropriate steps to protect the animal’s welfare and maintain safety on the road.

Watch for More

If you see one animal crossing the road, watch out for others. More may follow, especially if the animal is part of a group, a herd, or a family.

Be Patient

Depending on the animal, its behavior, and the situation, it may take some time for the creature to cross safely. Be patient and wait until it is out of harm’s way before proceeding. By following these guidelines when encountering animals on Georgia’s roadways, you can help to minimize the risk of animal-related accidents on the road.

Reach Out to a Georgia Attorney Today

Accidents involving animals are a persistent problem in many parts of the state. They can pose a risk to both people and property. To reduce the likelihood of these incidents, make sure to slow down, remain calm, and yield the right of way. If you would like to know what to do after experiencing an accident, consider scheduling a consultation with an attorney from Hall & Lampros, LLP by calling (404) 876-8100.