Safe driving: Animals on the road

What To Do If An Animal Runs In Front Of Your Vehicle

• Scan the road and shoulders ahead of you.
  • Looking ahead helps provide enough reaction time if an animal is spotted.
  • Also, remember some animals move in groups, so when there is one, there are usually more in the area.
• Use high-beam headlights if there’s no oncoming traffic.
  • Wildlife may be spotted sooner when using high beams. This will give the driver time to slow down, move over or honk the horn to scare the animal away.
  • High beams also help in spotting some animals’ reflective eyes.
• If a collision is unavoidable, apply the brakes firmly and remain in your lane. 
  • Swerving to avoid an animal can often cause a more serious crash or result in drivers losing control of vehicles.
• Be extra cautious at dawn and dusk.
  • Most animals, especially deer, tend to be more active early in the morning and at dusk.
• Slow down and use extra caution when traveling through areas with a high and active wildlife population.  
  • Be aware of increased wildlife movement in some regions during certain times of the year, such as hunting or mating season.
• Drivers should always wear a seat belt and remain awake, alert, and sober. 

The same safe driving practices that are taught in A-1’s Defensive Driving Class can apply to be a safe driver in a car and on a motorcycle. There is a lot of very useful and informative information in the class and it will apply whether you have been driving for years or you are a brand new driver.

For more information about class schedules or to see A-1’s 19 convenient locations call (770)962-9555 or visit us at www.a1drivingschools.com!