As your kids get behind the wheel for the first time, it’s crucial that they know how to drive defensively. This includes practicing certain potentially lifesaving precautions in the event that large animals ever cross their path. When learning to drive, use this guide to help keep your teen motorists safe.

How to Navigate Wildlife While Learning to Drive

Stay Calm & Don’t Swerve

It’s understandable to feel startled when a deer or animal crosses the road, especially while you’re still learning to drive. Keep in mind, though, that panic will interfere with your judgment and reaction time. Stay calm, and think on your feet. Do not attempt to swerve to avoid any wildlife, as doing so puts you at an increased risk of colliding with another vehicle or running off the road entirely.

Slow Down & Brace Yourself

As soon as you see a large animal crossing your path, begin to depress your brakes. Don’t slam on them — since another vehicle may be behind you. Braking too hard could cause you to skid and lose control of your car. Brace yourself for the possibility of an impact, and try to scoot down in your seat, if possible, since your windshield may shatter.

Stay in Your Vehicle & Call Emergency Services

If you do hit wildlife on the road, do not exit your vehicle. Though it’s normal to want to check on the animal or the condition of your automobile, you risk doing more harm than good. Get in touch with emergency personnel immediately. If you’re not injured, give your auto insurance company a call to begin filing an accident claim.

Bob Shropshire Sons Driving School specializes in helping teenagers with learning to drive safely. They offer private driving classes, professional instruction, and tests to get your kids throughout the Greater Cincinnati Area on the road smoothly and easily. Call them at (513) 721-3915 today to enroll your teens in driving training programs, and visit them online to find out more about learning to drive.