What should you do if you see an animal on the road?

When you see an animal on the road, the most appropriate action is to slow down and prepare to stop if necessary. This approach is critical for several reasons. First, animals can be unpredictable; they may suddenly dart across the road or change direction, which means that slowing down gives you more time to react effectively. Additionally, reducing your speed makes it easier to stop if the animal does enter your path, thus minimizing the risk of a collision that could injure both the animal and yourself.

Moreover, in many jurisdictions, including New Brunswick, there are laws and guidelines that prioritize road safety for both drivers and wildlife. Slowing down not only helps ensure your own safety but also reflects responsible driving behavior that considers the wellbeing of animals that may be in the area.

While other actions like changing lanes might seem reasonable, they can lead to unexpected hazards or provoke other drivers. Honking your horn may startle the animal, which could make the situation more dangerous. Spritting past at a higher speed poses a greater risk of a collision. Hence, slowing down and being prepared to stop is the safest and most responsible choice when encountering an animal on the road.