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With the change to summer time, rush hour traffic shifts back to twilight – exactly when wild animals are particularly active.
Kassel/Fulda – That night it was that time again: the clocks in Germany and the entire EU are on the night of Saturday, March 28th to Sunday, March 29th, by one hour been. What sounds like longer evenings to many people means increased danger on the roads for commuters in the Fulda region and all of Hesse. The Higher Hunting Authority of the Regional Council (RP) of Kassel warns urgently that the morning rush hours fall into the risky twilight phase due to the time change.
The hunting authority warns of an increased risk of accidents involving wildlife due to the time change
During the transition period, rush hour traffic and increased wildlife crossings come together directly. “Motorists should reduce their speed, remain ready to brake and take warning signs in wooded areas particularly seriously,” the authority advises. If a collision is unavoidable, the rule of thumb applies: hold the steering wheel and brake. Compared to a collision with wildlife, risky evasive maneuvers often end more tragically in the next tree or in oncoming traffic. This is also shown by a serious accident on a country road in Fulda.
Background: The Higher Hunting Authority
The Higher Hunting Authority of the RP Kassel is responsible for monitoring hunting law throughout Hesse. Among other things, it organizes hunter examinations and advises the lower hunting authorities in the districts and cities on the application of the federal and state hunting laws. More information about this can be found on the website of the RP Kassel.
If an accident occurs despite all caution, it is important to act correctly. In addition to securing the scene of the accident with hazard lights and warning triangles, the police must be informed. This also applies if the animal flees after the impact, so that foresters or hunting tenants can search for the injured animal and put it out of its suffering.
Important for drivers: Never touch or take with you injured or dead animals. Complete documentation is important for claims settlement. Photos of the accident site, the vehicle and the animal as well as an official wildlife accident certificate from the police or hunting leaseholder are essential for insurance.
