A motoring expert has urged drivers to take care on the roads during spring to avoid a growing issue that could result in fines of up to £5,000 and fatal accidents.
With the UK experiencing pleasant weather and longer days, many drivers may be tempted to head out into the countryside for scenic road trips.
However, Bryn Brooker, Head of Road Safety at the dashcam manufacturer Nextbase advised all motorists to keep a close eye out for animals and know exactly what to do if they hit one.
He warned: “Many drivers are completely unaware they could face severe penalties for failing to report hitting certain animals. Under the Road Traffic Act 1988, if you hit dogs, goats, horses, cattle, donkeys, mules, sheep, or pigs, you are legally required to report it to the police.
“Failing to stop or report these incidents carries significant penalties, including penalty points and fines up to £5,000. While cats and foxes aren’t covered by this specific reporting requirement, we strongly recommend reporting these to the RSPCA. If the cat has a collar on it the right thing to do is to contact the owner too.”
Whilst drivers will likely be in shock in the moments after having an accident with an animal, it is vital that they do not drive off without reporting the incident first.
In particular, motorists should report the case to the police, in addition to an animal rights charity such as the RSPCA and, if the animal was a pet with a name tag, the owner.
Despite being a difficult conversation to have, Nextbase noted that it is a vital one – with drivers risking fines of up to £5,000 for not reporting the accident.
Bryn also suggested that drivers who encounter a stray animal out on the road avoid swerving into oncoming traffic, which could result in an even larger accident with other road users.
He continued: “When an animal suddenly appears, your instinct to swerve could prove financially devastating as well as dangerous. Veering into oncoming traffic or off-road could result in catastrophic damage and injuries that could lead to further charges of dangerous driving.
“Instead, apply your brake, keep steering straight, and potentially use your horn to alert the animal if it is small. Only consider swerving if you’re absolutely certain you can do so safely. And don’t use your horn on anything large like a horse.”
