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A collision with an animal cannot always be avoided. But what should drivers pay attention to after a collision? And: What counts as a wildlife accident?
In 2022, German motor vehicle insurers recorded around 265,000 wildlife accidents that were related to comprehensively insured cars. The risk of a collision is particularly high General Association of Insurers (GDV) According to this, in autumn, as well as in the months of April and May. In some places, guide posts with blue reflectors are set up on country roads to deter wild animals. However, you should always be ready to brake, especially in these areas. Honking can help drive animals off the road. Unfortunately, a collision cannot always be avoided. But what should you do in such a case? And which animals are actually considered wild animals?
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Wild animal accident: This is how drivers react correctly
If a car collides with an animal, the shock is great. In such situations it is still important to remain calm. First you should switch on the hazard warning lights and put on the safety vest before leaving the vehicle. After the accident site has been secured with the warning triangle, the police (call number 110) should be informed. In most federal states there is an obligation to report accidents involving wildlife. If you do not comply with this obligation, it will be considered an administrative offense and a fine will be due.
A badger is considered furred game – therefore a collision with these animals is considered a wildlife accident. (Symbolic image) © IImagebroker/Imago
Car collides with animal: What counts as a wildlife accident?
In addition to the police, in some federal states there has to be loud noise ADAC A hunter can also be informed (sometimes the police themselves do this). This is necessary because as a car owner you need a so-called wildlife accident certificate in order to assert your insurance claims. When most people think of a wildlife accident, they first think of a collision with a deer or a wild boar. But what is generally considered wild animal? From an insurance perspective, this includes so-called furred game. Which animals belong to it is in §2 Federal Hunting Act set.
The furred game species include, among others:
- badger
- Hase
- Marder
- Fuchs
- lynx
- marmot
- Otter
- Reh
- Hirsch
- wild boar
Wild animal accident: Which insurance covers damage to your own car?
It is important to note that you should never touch injured animals as they may defend themselves. Anyone who pulls a dead animal to the side of the road should never do so without gloves because of possible pathogens.
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Sea GDV The insurance company should definitely be informed before the traces of game on the car are removed or the vehicle is repaired, scrapped or sold. Damage to your own vehicle in the event of an accident involving wild animals is usually covered by partial or fully comprehensive insurance.
