As a new driver, it is essential to know the traffic rules and follow them to ensure your safety as well as the safety of others on the road. However, a lot of young drivers are often unable to follow the rules, especially when it comes to animals on the road.

It is very difficult for motorists to spot smaller animals, especially at night. This is when they run into the roads to look for food or water and are most likely to be hit by vehicles. Here are 10 tips to avoid collision with animals on the road.

1. Remember to use your horn sparingly.

When driving, you will sometimes come across animals such as deer, cattle, etc. These animals have problem perceiving moving objects that are far away from them. If you use your horn every time you spot an animal on the road, it will scare them and they may run into your path just to get away from you. Keep in mind not to honk your horn every time you see an animal.

2. Check the speed limit and adjust your driving speed accordingly.

Remember to take note of the speed limit as well as adjust your driving speed accordingly. If you follow the speed limit, you will surely avoid hitting animals on the road as it is difficult for you to spot them especially at night.

3. Watch out for animals near the road shoulders.

Animals prefer to graze near the road shoulders because it is safe and they can easily cross the street. Be sure to slow down when you are passing through roadsides to avoid hitting animals.

4. Look out for the warning signs and reflectors of deer crossings on the road.

Drivers should always be careful and slow down when they see warning signs or reflectors of crossings that are meant for deer. In Canada, most areas have deer crossings on the roads. There are reflectors that are meant to guide you through these crossings, so be sure to watch out for them.

5. Do not swerve your vehicle to avoid hitting an animal that has already passed you.

Animals are unpredictable, so swerving your vehicle to avoid hitting them when they are already behind you is dangerous. You do not know how it will affect the car’s trajectory. It also puts other drivers on the road in danger, so avoid doing this.

6. Be patient with animals on the road.

If you are driving at night, you should slow down and be more careful to avoid hitting animals. Make sure that your car is in a low gear or else you will be unable to stop once you are over the speed limit.

7. Keep your eyes on the road.

Distracted driving kills! So be sure to keep your eyes on the road at all times even if you are driving at night to avoid hitting animals. Do not let other passengers distract you either.

8. Do not assume that the animal has already crossed the road.

Animals are unpredictable and may suddenly turn around and run onto your path after they have already crossed the road. This may cause you to accidentally hit them again.

9. Keep your windshield clean.

Remember to check the visibility of your car’s front windshield before driving off on a dark night. If you can’t see properly through your windshield, you may hit the animal when it suddenly appears in front of you.

10. Remember to drive safely even when you are in familiar roads.

Even if you know your way around the area, you should not be complacent and drive safely. You should never assume that an animal will not jump onto the road just because you are familiar with the area. Especially as a new driver on Canadian roads, you should always be prepared to encounter animals on the road because these creatures may jump onto the street from anywhere.

Final Thoughts

Driving in Canada can be quite scary because of the massive distances between major cities, which also increase the chances of someone encountering an animal. As a new driver, you should be educated in animal safety and awareness when it comes to the road. This article was written with the purpose of helping new drivers know how to avoid hitting animals on the road.