What action should you take if you see an animal on the road?

When encountering an animal on the road, the appropriate action is to slow down and be prepared to stop if necessary. This approach prioritizes safety—for both the driver and the animal. Slowing down gives you more time to assess the situation and react appropriately, as animals can behave unpredictably, darting into the road unexpectedly. It's important to maintain control of your vehicle and be ready for any sudden movements from the animal, which may not recognize the vehicle threat immediately.

Moreover, slowing down not only increases the chances of safely avoiding a collision, but it also helps protect other road users. Keeping your speed in check allows you to respond to any unforeseen circumstances, such as additional animals that may follow or distractions that could arise.

In contrast, speeding up to pass the animal quickly or maintain speed while driving creates a higher risk of an accident. Using the horn may startle the animal, potentially causing it to move into the path of oncoming traffic instead of away from it. Therefore, reducing your speed and staying vigilant is the best practice when approaching animals on the road.