Final answer:
The best defense against animal-related accidents is to watch for animals ahead and be prepared for unexpected movement, reacting calmly and safely. Adjusting speed and being vigilant in areas known for wildlife can prevent accidents. Understanding stopping distances can aid in safe driving around animals.
Step-by-step explanation:
The best defense against animal-related accidents is to watch for animals ahead and be prepared for unexpected movement. This approach involves being attentive and ready to react calmly and safely if an animal appears on the road. It is neither safe nor advisable to stop abruptly, speed up, or pull off the road unexpectedly, as these actions can cause collisions with other vehicles or lose control of your car. Instead, slowing down, using headlights at night to spot animals in advance, and being especially cautious in areas with wildlife crossing signs can help prevent accidents.
Understanding the relationship between speed and stopping distance, and observing proper road safety can be directly applied to situations where animals might be present. Physics explains that the faster a vehicle is moving, the longer the stopping distance required. Thus, keeping a moderate speed and being alert gives the driver more time to react safely if an animal darts onto the road.