First snow causes traffic jams and accidents in Neustrelitz!

First snow causes traffic jams and accidents in Neustrelitz!

Winter has reached the Strelitzer Land and with it the typical challenges on the roads. The first snow this morning led to real chaos in Neustrelitz, where several traffic accidents were recorded. The police recorded numerous sheet metal damage as the wintry conditions surprised many drivers. On New Year's Eve morning there were two accidents on Augustastrasse, where several vehicles collided on the slippery cobblestones, and on Elisabethstrasse, where vehicles were also involved in an accident. In both cases, the material damage amounts to 1,500 euros each.

But it wasn't just urban streets that were affected. In Wesenberg, an unsecured vehicle rolled away on Lindenstrasse, causing damage of 250 euros. There were also several accidents involving wild animals on the surrounding federal highways. A car crashed into a wild animal on the L342 near Conow, causing material damage of 1,000 euros. Another incident occurred between Wesenberg and Wustrow on the B122, where a driver also collided with a wild animal, which again caused damage of 1,000 euros.

Accidents involving wild animals in the cold season

Winter conditions not only increase the risk of accidents on the roads, but also influence the behavior of wildlife. According to information from KFV, a leading institute in Austria, wildlife accidents have been promoted in recent years by climate change. Every year, around 73,000 accidents involving wildlife occur in Austria, particularly affecting deer (55%) and hares (26%). This is in the context of an increasing number of deer killed by road traffic, which has increased by 7% in the last 16 years. This is concerning because the most common wildlife accidents can result in significant personal and financial harm.

In many regions, such as Lower Austria, where most wildlife accidents are recorded, the risk is particularly high due to a dense transport network and the numerous commuters. Here the dangers increase due to the fragmentation of natural habitats. Measures such as wildlife warning devices and traffic signs are intended to help reduce the risk. These devices and reflection techniques have reduced accident rates by up to 70% in some areas.

Be careful when driving

There are a few simple tips for drivers to avoid accidents involving wild animals: adjust your speed, brake when in sight of wild animals and avoid uncontrolled evasive maneuvers. In the event of a collision with a wild animal, the driver should secure the scene of the accident and notify the police immediately. In this country too, every accident involving wild animals must be reported, even if the animal escapes.

In summary, increased caution is required both on slippery roads and in relation to wild animals. Winter not only brings snow and ice, but also an increased risk of accidents. Especially at the turn of the year, when many people are on the roads, careful driving is essential to avoid injuries and damage.