Driving in Long Island offers scenic routes and beautiful landscapes. There are also parks like Heckscher State Park and Belmont Lake State Park, as well as coastal wetlands like Great South Bay and the Quogue Wildlife Refuge. These places are scenic, allowing us to unwind and escape the noise and density of the urban area to the east. Wild animals can be found all over the island but thrive in these parks, refuges and more remote areas. Local drivers are well aware of the hazards that animals pose, but others may not be. Understanding these risks and how to respond is critical for drivers traveling around the South Shore.
Common wildlife hazards
Except for deer, large wild animals are rare on Long Island. Still, hazards come in all sizes:
- Deer: The most common large animals that drivers encounter on Long Island are particularly active during dawn and dusk. They can suddenly appear on roadways, leading to potentially severe accidents. Collisions with deer can cause significant damage to vehicles and serious injuries to drivers and passengers.
- Small mammals: Rabbits, squirrels and other small mammals frequently dart across roads, especially in wooded or suburban areas. Raccoons and opossums are nocturnal and pose a serious danger at night. Although these animals may seem less hazardous than larger wildlife, they can still cause accidents and injuries.
- Birds: Geese and ducks often congregate near water ponds, lakes and rivers, and can unexpectedly cross roads in large groups. Many tend to migrate in the spring and fall, so expect more activity during those seasons. Scavenging birds such as vultures are also attracted to recent roadkill, and birds of prey often use the open space around roads to hunt, increasing their activity near vehicles.
We should note that domesticated animals can also pose a danger. Dogs may escape from poorly fenced yards, and many cat owners allow their cats roam unsupervised. While rural land Long Island is dwindling, there are still many farms to be found, especially in the Riverhead, North Fork. Livestock may occasionally escape from their fields or enclosures, unexpectedly crossing roads. In circumstances like these, the animal’s owner may be responsible on the event of a collision, but care should still be used to avoid injury.
What to do if you hit a deer
If you hit a larger animal, like a deer, the impact can cause significant damage to your vehicle and may result in injury. Here are the steps to take if you find yourself in this situation:
- Stay calm and safe: Pull over to a safe location, turn on your hazard lights and check for injuries. Do not approach the injured animal, as it may be dangerous.
- Call the authorities: The local police can help manage the situation and file an official report, which may be necessary for insurance claims.
- Document the scene: Taking photos of the damage to your vehicle and the accident scene can be helpful for insurance claims.
- Notify your insurance company: Report the accident to your insurance provider as soon as possible. Provide them with all necessary information, including the police report and photos.
- Seek medical attention: If you or any passengers are injured, seek medical help immediately. Some injuries may not be immediately apparent, so it’s essential to get checked by a health care professional.
The danger of swerving
Many drivers instinctively swerve when faced with an animal on the road to avoid a collision. However, this can often be more dangerous than hitting the animal. Swerving can lead to losing control of the vehicle, veering into oncoming traffic, or crashing into obstacles such as trees or guardrails. It’s important to remember that if a driver hits another vehicle or a pedestrian while avoiding an animal, they can be held liable for damages and injuries.
Dealing with the aftermath
By staying vigilant and prepared, drivers can better navigate the roads of Long Island with greater confidence and safety. Failing to do so can lead to property damage, injuries or even fatalities. Those with questions about an animal-related accident can contact the firm.
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