How to drive safely in the New Forest
Speed kills but so does passing too close to the animals that are grazing on the verge. Most people who hit an animal say they were not exceeding the 40mph speed limit when the accident occurred.
Many drivers believe that because animals are used to the traffic that this means they have road sense. This is wrong, and it is this complacency that leads to many of the collisions. The animals are used to the traffic but have no more road sense than a two year old child. While many collisions occur during the hours of darkness, too many are happening during the day.
When passing an animal on the verge drivers should:
- Slow down!
- Assess the road ahead and behind for traffic.
- Pass wide and slow when it is safe to do so and indicate to inform other road users of your actions.
- Expect the unexpected, the grass is always greener on the other side of the road!
What to do if an accident occurs
If a collision does occur, for whatever reason, you are deemed responsible if it involves an animal on the New Forest’s unfenced roads.
You are required by law, to report the accident to the police as soon as practicable, and certainly within 24 hours.
Telephone numbers:
In an emergency requiring immediate assistance call 999 for the police.
Non-emergency number: 0845 045 4545