The number of wildlife collisions is increasing in Norway
The concern about encountering game on the road is great out in the rural areas, says NAF adviser Jan Harry Svendsen.
Figures from Statistics Norway (SSB) show that the number of wildlife collisions has increased by just under 10 per cent in one year. Most wildlife collisions are in Viken, Innlandet and Trøndelag.
– It is in the autumn that most game collisions occur. Darkness, fog and rain can often make it extra difficult to spot the game. Therefore, you should reduce your speed when you pass someone who warns against the danger of wildlife, says Svendsen.
Dim the lights on the screens in the car
NAF also recommends that you turn down the intensity of the screens in the car so that you preserve the greatest possible degree of night vision. Many modern cars have large touch screens that can emit a lot of light.
– Use your eyes actively when driving on stretches with a high risk of wild game. Keep a close eye on roadsides and look for game when you’re out driving. If you meet another car, you should also not look into the lights, but let your gaze follow the road, says Svendsen.
Comes in flocks
The signs about the danger of wild game are put up where there is animal trampling and there is an increased risk of hitting game, but you can also hit game in other places along the road.
– Animals come quickly and in many cases they come in a herd. This particularly applies to deer game, but moose can also come in herds across the road, especially in autumn. If you see one animal, it is wise to think that there may be more, says Svendsen.
By reducing your speed, you make room in places where there is a great danger of wild game.
– By lowering your speed a little, you can get the safety margin you need to avoid a collision. In addition, a lower speed will reduce the risk of consequential accidents that can occur if you have to make an evasive maneuver or if you are driving on the loose, says Svendsen.
Do not follow after hit game
If you should be unlucky enough to run over an animal, it is important to mark the spot and notify the police on 02800.
– If you have driven over an animal that then goes into the forest, you must not follow. The animal is very likely injured and may attack. The best thing you can do is mark the place where the animal entered the forest and call for help, says Svendsen.
Think about your own safety
NAF also asks motorists to be careful where they stop after a collision.
– Take care of your own safety. Stop so that you are not an obstacle to other traffic and wear a reflective vest. If the car is not drivable, it is important that you mark the scene of the accident by putting out a warning triangle and that you get away from the car, concludes the NAF adviser.