What to Do If You Hit a Deer or Moose: A Driver's Guide

When driving through the picturesque landscapes of Ontario, there's a chance you might encounter wildlife on the roads. It’s beautiful, sure — but it can also come with some unexpected challenges. You know what? It’s not just about enjoying the ride; it’s about being prepared for the bumps along the way, literally. So, what should you do if you hit a deer or a moose? Let's break this down into manageable, bite-sized pieces.

What’s the First Step?
Well, it might feel instinctive to call a tow truck if your vehicle sustains damage, but hold up! The first step in this scenario isn’t about getting help for your car; it’s about ensuring safety on the road for everyone, including you. The proper action to take when you hit a large animal like a deer or moose is to report the incident to the local police service — and here’s why.

Why Reporting Matters

1. Insurance Documentation: Accidents involving deer or moose can lead to substantial vehicle damage. By reporting the accident, you create an official record. This documentation is critical for your insurance claims. Without it, you might find yourself in a tough spot when filing for damages.

2. Public Safety: These large animals can become hazards on the roads, especially if they’re injured and lying on the pavement. Reporting the incident helps local authorities manage any potential dangers, preventing further accidents down the line. Imagine driving the same route later and finding an injured animal or debris — yikes!

3. Legal Issues: Ignoring the situation is a no-go. It’s not just about being a responsible driver; failing to report such incidents can lead to potential legal consequences. You don’t want to be the person who brushed off something like this. It’s better to be safe and sound, don’t you think?

What If I Just Keep Driving?
Continuing to drive without addressing the accident can be perilous. Imagine you’ve hit a deer, and its presence causes others to swerve or stop suddenly. Risking further accidents is not the way to go. Practicing good judgment protects not just you, but everyone else on the road too.

Avoiding the "Ignore It" Trap
Let’s talk about the temptation to simply ignore the situation. Picture this: You're stressed, maybe your heart's racing, and all you want is to get out of there. But ignoring what happened could lead to a series of unfortunate events — for you and other drivers. Those moments of recklessness can echo through reality much longer than you’d like.

Wrapping It Up
Driving is a privilege and comes with its responsibilities. Should you find yourself in the unfortunate circumstance of hitting a deer or a moose, take a moment, collect yourself, and remember to reach out to the local police service. It’s not just an act of responsibility; it’s about ensuring that safety is maintained on every Ontario road. Beyond the beauty of our extensive wilderness, let’s keep our highways safe and sound for everyone driving through!

So there you have it! Next time you’re cruising down the highway, staying alert, and knowing what to do in case of an unexpected encounter can make all the difference. Drive safe, and enjoy the ride!