When truckers hit the open road, they’re not just navigating highways and byways; they’re also sharing their journey with the wildlife that calls these routes home. Encounters with animals, whether it’s a curious deer, a wandering bear, or a mischievous raccoon, can pose challenges and even dangers for truckers. In this blog post, we’ll offer a few tips and tricks for safe interactions and what to do when things go awry. So, buckle up, and let’s dive into this wild adventure on the road.
The vast landscapes and remote areas that truckers traverse often provide glimpses of nature’s beauty. Whether it’s a serene lake, a pristine forest, or a scenic mountain pass, truckers are privileged to see some of the most breathtaking sights on the planet. These routes are also home to a diverse range of wildlife, and knowing how to safely share the road with these creatures is vital for both the trucker’s safety and the animals’.
Tips for Safe Wildlife Encounters
- Reduce Speed: The first and foremost rule when it comes to wildlife encounters is to slow down. Reducing your speed increases your reaction time, giving you a better chance to respond if an animal darts onto the road, since we all know these rigs don’t exactly stop on a dime – especially when fully loaded.
- Stay Alert: Keep your eyes peeled for signs warning of wildlife crossings. They indicate areas where animals are more likely to appear. Be particularly vigilant during dawn and dusk when many animals are most active.
- Use Your Horn: If you spot an animal near the road, use your horn to alert them to your presence. Often, this will encourage them to move away, but remember to do this with caution as a startled animal may be unpredictable and could be scared directly into your path.
- Do Not Swerve: It’s crucial not to swerve suddenly to avoid an animal. Swerving can lead to losing control of your truck or colliding with other vehicles. It’s safer to brake as steadily as possible.
- Maintain Your Vehicle: Regular vehicle maintenance ensures your brakes, lights, and horn are in working order. In wildlife-prone areas, a functioning horn can be a lifesaver.
When Wildlife Encounters Go Wrong
Despite your best efforts, there may be times when a wildlife encounter takes a turn for the worse. If you find yourself in this situation, here’s what to do:
- Brake Gradually: If an animal suddenly appears in your path, gently apply the brakes to slow down. Avoid sudden movements to prevent losing control.
- Stay in Your Lane: Whenever possible, try to stay within your lane. Swerving can lead to accidents with other vehicles.
- Turn on Your Hazard Lights: Turn on your hazards lights to alert other drivers to the situation. This can help prevent collisions.
- Pull off to the Side of the Road: Some animal encounters will require us to pull off the road as soon as we safely can. If your truck has been damaged, or the animal is posing a hazard to other motorists, carefully make your way to the shoulder or the first safe place you see to get off the road. Do not approach an injured animal.
- Contact Authorities: If the incident results in injury to the animal, or damage to your vehicle, or presents a road hazard to other motorists, contact local authorities and your dispatcher.
While truckers get to witness some of the most beautiful creatures on this earth, these wildlife encounters also require vigilance and a clear understanding of how to safely navigate the road when sharing it with wildlife. By following the tips in this article, you can help ensure that your journey remains not only memorable, but also safe.
So, as you continue your adventures on the open road, remember that with a little caution and a touch of patience, you can coexist harmoniously with the natural world around you. After all, the thrill of the journey is what makes the trucker’s lifestyle truly special.
