Few things are quite as stunning as witnessing an animal in its natural habitat. But that beauty can turn frightening quickly if an animal darts out onto the road while you’re in your vehicle. Minnesotans are sure to see some deer on the road during the fall, but even smaller wildlife can lead to significant auto body damage if not approached correctly. Since October 28 through November 3 is Give Wildlife a Brake! Week, here are some tips to keep in mind when you encounter an animal on the road.

How to Avoid Wildlife Collisions

1. Drive the Speed Limit

Many animals are injured or killed while crossing the road simply because motorists are driving too fast to stop before a collision. Following the posted speed limit will help you have enough distance to come to a full stop before hitting the animal, preventing injury and auto body damage.

2. Don’t Swerve

If you think a collision with an animal is inevitable, it’s important to stay as calm as possible and maintain control of your vehicle. Swerving endangers other motorists on the road and can make the situation direr than it needs to be. The idea is to mitigate as much auto body damage and injury as possible in this situation, and that typically means continuing to drive in a straight line and handling a potential collision with the animal if it does occur.

3. Stay Focused

Avoiding distractions, such as cell phone use, tinkering with the radio, and food, is a good driving practice in general, but it is even more important when there are animals on the road. Keep your eyes ahead and scan the edges to spot any crossing animals before they enter your lane. By staying focused and controlling your speed, you’ll have as much time as possible to react to any wildlife you encounter.

If your vehicle has been damaged in a wildlife collision, the auto body repair experts of Stillwater Auto Clinic are ready to get you back in good condition again. With years of experience, the knowledgeable crew can efficiently identify any issues with your vehicle – everything from a flickering headlight to malfunctioning oxygen sensors – and handle the appropriate repairs all while providing exceptional customer service. Visit the website for a full list of services or call (651) 351-7188 to speak with a friendly representative today.