Brake Repair Helps Prevent Unnecessary Road Kill

If you're an animal lover, one of the best things you can do for local wildlife is invest in quality brake repair and maintenance services. Even drivers in urban areas must now contend with daring animals that dart in front of their cars. It isn't just large game animals like deer and moose that pose problems. In cities, loose pets like cats and dogs are threats to driver safety. Smaller mammals, birds, and even reptiles have also all been known to find themselves in a tight spot.

Why is brake repair so important in avoiding road kill? In most situations, evasion is too dangerous. Swerving quickly, or even braking while swerving can put you and other drivers in a hazardous position. You may strike a nearby or oncoming car, fall into a trench, or cause a major traffic collision chain - and to top it all off, there's still a chance you'll strike the offending animal. The only instance where swerving can be to your advantage is when the animal is large enough to severely injure you and there is no time to significantly slow down. There should also be ample room next to you such as multiple lanes or a clear shoulder.

In every other case of animal crossings, it is recommended to slow down and come to a safe stop if possible. If there is not enough time and the animal is very small (for example, a squirrel), it may even be safer to continue driving at the same speed. Slowing down may confuse them even more, causing them to stop or run back and forth in front of traffic. If you keep driving towards them at the same speed, it may be enough incentive for them to kick it into high gear and get across faster. Avoid hard stops, as you will have a greater chance of getting rear-ended. Turn on your emergency lights and honk your horn as you approach the animal to alert other drivers as to what is happening.

If your brakes are working in proper order, you're more likely to miss that animal. But what happens when you don't make it? Striking an animal can be emotionally distressing, especially if it is clearly a family pet. If you're in a safe area, such as a quiet street or anywhere with little traffic, you can pull over and see if the animal is not too badly injured. If it's wild or very badly hurt, it's better to call animal control to handle the situation as they may bite or attack you if scared. Do gently shift the animal out of harm's way to the side of the road if possible. If the animal is domesticated, you can bring it to an emergency vet where they will try to contact the owners.

The next time you notice you're having difficulty stopping or slowing down quickly enough you should bring your car in for brake repair. It's not only safe for you, but furry interlopers that cross your path will be grateful as well.