What to Do If Your Car Is Involved in an Accident with an Animal

Published on May 16, 2025
What to Do If Your Car Is Involved in an Accident with an Animal

1. Steps to Take Immediately After a Car Accident with an Animal

Getting into a car accident with an animal can be both shocking and distressing. In such situations, it's important to stay calm and take the right steps to protect yourself, other people, and the animal involved. The first thing you should do is pull over to the side of the road, away from traffic, to ensure everyone's safety.

Once you're safely parked, make sure to check for any injuries to yourself and passengers. If anyone is injured, call emergency services right away. Next, try to assess the animal’s condition from a distance. Do not approach the animal if it appears aggressive or injured, as this could lead to further harm. If possible, take note of the animal's type, size, and any identifiable marks for later reporting.

Pick Your Part - Help Yourself
pick your part help yourself
Pick Your Part - Help Yourself

1232 Blinn Ave, Wilmington, CA 90744, USA

2. Safety Precautions to Follow During and After the Accident

Safety is paramount in any accident, and this holds true even in cases of animal collisions. It’s important to stay inside your vehicle if possible, especially if you're on a busy road. Turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers of the accident. When it’s safe to do so, exit the vehicle cautiously. Always be mindful of other drivers, especially at night when visibility is poor.

If you need to approach the animal to help or move it from the road, make sure you take extreme caution. Approach slowly and avoid making any sudden movements that might provoke the animal. Use an item like a jacket or a blanket to gently guide the animal off the road, if it is safe to do so. Remember, never attempt to move an injured animal without professional assistance, as it can be dangerous for both you and the animal.

Pick Your Part - Greer
lkq pick your part - greer greer sc
Pick Your Part - Greer

13054 E Wade Hampton Blvd, Greer, SC 29651, USA

After the immediate safety concerns are addressed, you will need to follow up with legal and insurance steps. In many places, accidents involving animals, especially wildlife, require reporting to local authorities. This helps prevent future accidents and ensures that wildlife laws are followed. Be sure to contact your local animal control or wildlife authorities, and if the animal is wild, they will likely need to handle the situation.

Your insurance company will also need to be informed of the accident. Most car insurance policies cover accidents involving animals, but coverage may vary based on the specifics of your policy. Be prepared to provide your insurance company with all the details, including the incident report from the authorities, photos of the damage, and any other relevant information. This will help streamline your claim process and ensure you're properly compensated.

4. Preventing Future Animal Collisions

While you can't always predict when you'll encounter an animal on the road, there are steps you can take to reduce the likelihood of a future accident. First, always stay alert, particularly in areas known for wildlife crossings. Be extra cautious when driving at dawn and dusk, as animals are more active during these times.

Install reflective decals or animal crossing signs on your vehicle if you frequently drive through areas known for animal traffic. Reducing your speed in areas with high wildlife activity can also help you react more quickly if an animal crosses your path. In case of sudden encounters, avoid swerving. A controlled brake is safer than a sharp turn, which can cause a more severe accident.

While it's always better to avoid an animal collision, these safety measures and steps can help you manage the situation effectively if it happens. At Rescue & Towing, we offer the right services and products to ensure your vehicle is in optimal condition and ready for any unexpected situation on the road.

Auto Repair Shops Near Me

Recommended

Vibration at High Speed While Driving: Causes, Risks, and Solutions

Vibration at High Speed While Driving: Causes, Risks, and Solutions

Understand the common causes of vibration at high speed while driving, the risks involved, and practical solutions to keep your vehicle safe and smooth. Learn expert tips to diagnose and fix shaking issues.

Jun 19, 2025
How to Replace Car Timing Chain: A Detailed Step-by-Step Guide for Car Owners

How to Replace Car Timing Chain: A Detailed Step-by-Step Guide for Car Owners

Learn how to replace car timing chain with this detailed, easy-to-follow guide. Understand key signs of timing chain failure and get expert tips for a successful timing chain replacement.

Jun 17, 2025
Essential Car Maintenance for Diesel Vehicles to Ensure Long-Lasting Performance

Essential Car Maintenance for Diesel Vehicles to Ensure Long-Lasting Performance

Explore key car maintenance for diesel vehicles with detailed tips on diesel engine care, regular service, and practical advice to keep your diesel car running efficiently.

Jun 17, 2025
How to Replace a Car Air Filter: A Step-by-Step Guide for Beginners

How to Replace a Car Air Filter: A Step-by-Step Guide for Beginners

Discover a detailed step-by-step guide on how to replace a car air filter. Learn why regular air filter replacement improves vehicle performance and air quality. Find trusted services and products at Rescue & Towing.

Jun 17, 2025
How to Fix Car Exhaust Smell Inside Car: Effective Solutions for a Fresh Cabin

How to Fix Car Exhaust Smell Inside Car: Effective Solutions for a Fresh Cabin

Learn how to fix car exhaust smell inside car with practical and detailed tips. Discover causes, prevention methods, and professional advice to keep your vehicle cabin fresh and safe.

Jun 17, 2025
Why Your Car Jerks When Accelerating and How to Fix It

Why Your Car Jerks When Accelerating and How to Fix It

Learn why your car jerks when accelerating with in-depth analysis of common causes and effective solutions. Discover practical tips to improve vehicle performance and avoid sudden jerks during acceleration.

Jun 17, 2025
Car repair estimate