ROGUE animals venturing onto the carriageway are causing hundreds of lane closures each year, new figures have revealed.
The latest data from Highways England shows there were 507 incidents as a result of creatures on motorways in 2020, and a further 94 on A roads. This is a decrease on the 638 and 107 respectively that were recorded the year before. Duncan McClure Fisher, founder and CEO of leading motoring association MotorEasy, who obtained the stats, urged drivers to be alert for potential hazards on the road. But he warned that swerving to avoid hitting an animal can actually do more harm than good. Mr McClure Fisher said: “Most motorists know hazards come in different shapes and sizes and they can appear when we least expect it. Britain’s motorway network covers around 2,300 miles and there are 29,500 miles of A roads. So it’s no surprise that animals will occasionally wander from nearby green spaces into the danger zone. While none of us want to cause harm or suffering to one of nature’s creatures, it’s important for drivers to be aware that taking evasive action could put yourself or other motorists in danger. If you slam your brakes or swerve to avoid hitting an animal and end up damaging another vehicle instead, you could be held liable by insurers. It’s important to stay alert at all times when driving on motorways, keep an appropriate distance from vehicles in front and remember a hazard can strike when you least expect it."
Road bosses close lanes on a motorway due to a number of factors, ranging from pre-planned maintenance to unexpected issues. Roadworks were the most common cause of lane closures in 2020, with 45,627 incidents recorded by Highways England. Vehicle breakdowns were in second place – with 36,371 reports – followed by traffic collisions with 10,231.
Other reasons included 726 lane closures caused by a pedestrian on the road, 665 due to fire and 531 reports of suicide or attempted suicide. While a collision with small animals such as a squirrel or a badger do not legally have to be reported, welfare charities such as the RSPCA welcome alerts of injured animals where there may still be a chance to save its life. However, it is illegal to hit many larger animals and drive away, including dogs, horses, cattle, pigs, goats, sheep and donkeys. Experts recommend watching out for road signs warning of the presence of animal crossings and to use headlights to warn creatures you are approaching.
For more information visit www.motoreasy.com.
