What to do if an animal runs into the road

Navigating the Unexpected: What to Do if an Animal Runs into the Road

Picture this: you're cruising down the Utah highways, perhaps with the window cracked just enough to let that fresh mountain air flow in. You're jamming to your favorite playlist and life is good. Suddenly, out of nowhere, an animal darts into the road. Your heart races. What do you do?

Let’s talk practicalities and safety here. Instead of panicking, there’s a clear and calm response to keep you and the unpredictable animal safe. The golden rule? If it’s safe, slow down and be prepared to stop. This simple action can make all the difference.

The Art of Slowing Down

Now, I get it. When your instincts kick in, the last thing you might want to do is hit the brakes, especially if you think you can just swerve around it or speed up and out of danger. But let’s unpack that a little. Slowing down is not just an act of courtesy; it’s a strategic move to ensure both your safety and that of the animal.

Imagine an animal in a panic. In many cases, they don’t have a clue about the crazy fast world around them. They might freeze, hesitate, or even dart back the way they came—an unpredictable adventure waiting to unfold. By reducing your speed, you're giving yourself the chance to react if the unexpected occurs. The more aware and controlled you are, the better choices you can make in those split-second moments.

Why Speeding Up is a Terrible Idea

You might be tempted to step on the gas when danger strikes. Maybe you think “I can just rush past it.” But trust me, that’s a quick ticket to trouble. Speeding up can lead to losing control or crashing into another vehicle or a roadside object. The stakes are high, and believe me, your car won't win against a deer or any sizable animal.

A Note on Swerving

Let's address the urge to swerve around the animal. While your intuition might scream at you to take evasive action, swerving can lead to unpredictable situations too. You could collide with oncoming traffic or veer off the road. It’s like dancing with danger, and nobody wins in that scenario.

Instead of panicking and trying to maneuver your way out, keep your vehicle steady. You’ll want to maintain control so you can react appropriately. If an animal crosses your path, just stay calm, slow down, and keep your life—and the life of that animal—intact.

The Horn Dilemma

So, what about honking? Surely, stepping on the horn will send the critter running, right? While it might seem like a smart move, it can also startle the animal, leading to even more erratic behavior. Their fight-or-flight instincts may trigger, pushing them to dart in front of your moving vehicle.

Instead of that honking horn, think of your vehicle as a big, friendly stationary giant. Slow down, stay alert, and keep your distance. You’ll be ready for any curveball the animal throws your way.

Keeping Your Eyes Everywhere

Driving with caution around wildlife isn’t just a random thought—it’s essential for all of us sharing the road. Utah is home to a variety of wildlife, from deer to bunnies, especially in rural areas and during twilight hours when they roam around. This means that a keen eye and attentive driving can prevent unnecessary accidents.

Slow down, yes, but also keep your eyes peeled. Look out for warning signs about animal crossings. They may seem mundane, but they’re there for a reason. Those signs are not just decoration—they’re an alert to stay extra vigilant.

Encountering Other Drivers

Let’s not overlook our fellow drivers, either. If you’re slowing down, you might find cars behind you getting anxious. While it’s important to keep safety paramount, remember to be cautious of the traffic flow around you.

Yielding and communicating through signals can help ensure everyone’s on the same page. The last thing you want is to be part of a chain reaction crash because someone wasn’t expecting your sudden deceleration.

Bringing It All Together

Here’s the thing: driving is as much about skill and patience as it is about following rules. It’s about respecting the environment, being aware of wildlife, and cherishing life—both yours and that of the animals nearby. So, the next time you find yourself faced with an animal in the road, remember this mantra: slow down and be prepared to stop.

By emphasizing safety over speed, you not only improve your response time but also contribute to making our roads a caring space for all creatures. You might just save a life, and that, my friend, is the best trophy of all. Now, let’s keep driving safely and soaking in the beauty of those Utah roads!