Spate of animal accidents in the New Forest 'the worst for a long time' (From Thisisdorset)

Spate of animal accidents in the New Forest 'the worst for a long time'

12:03pm Thursday 22nd November 2012 in Latest

New Forest ponies

DRIVERS are being urged to take care on New Forest roads following a surge in the number of animal accidents during November.

The New Forest National Park Authority and Verderers are appealing for motorists to take more care after there were 20 accidents, including five fatalities, three injuries and two hit and runs in the first two weeks of November.

Nineteen of the accidents happened in the dark.

Sue Westwood, clerk to the Verderers, said: “This is the worst spate of animal accidents for a long time.

“We are disappointed and want to remind people once again to be more vigilant when driving through the Forest.

“If vehicles are coming towards you, slow down, so that you can see and have time to react if an animal steps out or crosses the road in front of you.

“It is particularly difficult to see an animal that comes from the right-hand side when you are driving as your vision is compromised by the lights of oncoming vehicles.

“Hit and runs are the most distressing of accidents – it’s vital that you report an accident straight away.”

If you witness or are involved in an accident involving a pony, donkey, cow, pig or sheep, call the police immediately.