Beware of collisions with wild game!

Why are collisions more frequent during the hunting season?

During the hunting season, wild animals such as deer, wild boar and roe deer are more active and move around more to escape from hunters. These movements increase the risk of encountering an animal on the road, especially in rural and wooded areas. What’s more, the hours of dusk and dawn, when visibility is reduced, are particularly conducive to these dangerous encounters.

What are the consequences of a collision with game?

A collision with a wild animal can result in significant material damage to your vehicle, and even serious injury to the occupants. Animals are often large and unpredictable, and can cause chain accidents if other vehicles are involved. It is vital to understand that these accidents are not just a question of material damage, but also of road safety.

How can you reduce the risks?

1. Slow down and be extra vigilant: in areas marked by signs indicating game crossing, reduce your speed and pay particular attention to both sides of the road. If possible, use main roads.

2. Use your dipped headlights: in poor visibility, use your dipped headlights to see and be seen better. If you come across an animal, avoid turning on the headlights to avoid dazzling the animal and to allow it to find an escape route.

3. Use the horn: if you come across game, you can use the horn. The sound helps animals to find their bearings and find an escape route.

4. Avoid sudden manoeuvres: if you see an animal, avoid sudden steering movements that could cause you to lose control of your vehicle. It is advisable to stop if possible and let the animal pass.

5. Remain vigilant at critical times: be particularly careful at dawn and dusk, when animals are most active.

What to do in the event of a collision

If, despite all your precautions, a collision does occur, here are the steps to take:

1. Hold the steering wheel steady: if you cannot avoid the animal, it is advisable to brake as hard as you can while holding the steering wheel steady. Attempting to avoid the animal is strongly discouraged, as you risk losing control of the vehicle and ending up on the side of the road.

2. Secure the area: switch on your hazard warning lights and place a warning triangle to warn other drivers. Don’t forget to wear the reflective waistcoat provided in the vehicle (and for passengers).

3. Do not approach the animal: an injured animal can be dangerous. Keep your distance and call the appropriate authorities.

4. Notify emergency services: contact the police to report the accident. They will be able to take the necessary measures to secure the area and manage the injured animal if necessary. Then contact your insurer. You can also contact ACL to arrange a tow.

5. Document the accident: take photos of the scene, the animal and the damage to your vehicle. This evidence will be useful for your insurance claim.

Conclusion

Vigilance and caution are essential to avoid collisions with game, especially during the hunting season. Adopting the right reflexes, paying attention to road signs and reducing your speed in wooded areas can help reduce the risk of collisions. If possible, it is advisable to use the main roads during this period. In all circumstances, avoid approaching the animal and avoid putting yourself in danger.

ACL’s little plus :

ACL membership includes the risk of collision with game. So if the car driven by a member is damaged in a collision with game on a public road in Luxembourg, the ACL will reimburse up to €500 once a year for repair costs not covered by insurance. The damage must be reported to the ACL as soon as possible so that an agent can explain the procedure to be followed. It is advisable to take photographs of the damage. ACL reserves the right to have the damage assessed by an expert.