The presence of wild animals on Indian highways is a serious issue that poses a significant risk to motorists. Recent incidents have highlighted the potential devastating consequences of accidents involving these animals. A video captured by a dashboard camera serves as a stark reminder of the dangers associated with such encounters.
The video shows a Hyundai Creta speeding down a relatively empty highway when suddenly, a nilgai, a type of antelope, crosses the road unexpectedly, catching the driver off guard. Unable to react in time, the car collides with the animal, causing extensive damage to the front-end of the vehicle. The impact is so severe that the car subsequently crashes into a pole, exacerbating the damage.
Fortunately, the safety features of the Hyundai Creta are able to deploy, effectively protecting the occupants by deploying airbags. Miraculously, despite the violent collision, everyone in the car escapes unharmed. This incident highlights the need for caution and preparedness while driving on Indian roads.
Encountering stray animals, especially cattle, on Indian highways is not uncommon. Previous attempts to address this issue, such as the use of reflective tapes on their horns to enhance visibility, have proven to be limited and ineffective. As a result, drivers must take precautionary measures to ensure their safety.
Defensive driving is crucial on Indian roads. Maintaining a moderate speed and remaining vigilant at all times is highly advisable. Before attempting to overtake another vehicle, conducting a thorough assessment of the road ahead is essential. Blindly overtaking can lead to catastrophic accidents on the unpredictable roads of India.
One important lesson learned from the incident involving the nilgai is that high speeds significantly reduce reaction time, making it more challenging to avoid collisions. Therefore, adhering to speed limits and exercising caution, even on empty roads, is of utmost importance. Stray animals have a tendency to move unpredictably in any direction, posing a significant threat to vehicles.
In conclusion, adopting a defensive driving approach, obeying speed limits, and remaining alert are vital for ensuring road safety on Indian highways. The presence of wild animals and stray cattle requires drivers to be prepared for unexpected encounters. By driving cautiously and staying vigilant, motorists can reduce the risk of accidents and protect both themselves and these vulnerable road users.