The Spanish Directorate-General for Traffic (DGT) is sounding the alarm: Alarming statistics reveal that one in three traffic accidents on Spanish roads involves an animal. This concerning development, announced by the DGT on Tuesday, highlights a growing problem for road safety in Spain. In 2024, a total of 112,000 traffic accidents were recorded nationwide, of which a staggering 36,700 were attributed to the presence of animals.
Wild Boars at the Top of Accident Causers
The continuous increase in these accidents is setting off alarm bells among authorities. A main reason for this rise is the rapidly growing population of certain wild animal species. In particular, wild boars are responsible for over 40% of all animal-related accidents. “The wild boar population is skyrocketing. They tell us that the population can double every year, year after year,” explained Jose Miguel Tolosa, traffic director for the province of Cantabria. This explosive proliferation makes wild boars the greatest danger on the roads.
Deer and Dogs Follow Closely Behind
On the infamous “podium” of accident-causing animals, deer follow with 32% and dogs with 8.5% involvement in traffic accidents. These collisions typically occur on less frequented secondary roads, where a lack of barriers, poor visibility, and changes in elevation significantly hinder the detection and avoidance of animals. Limited visibility often makes it unavoidable for drivers to collide with suddenly appearing animals.
Low Mortality, High Material Damage: The Consequences of Animal Collisions
Although the mortality rate in animal collisions is very low, below 1%, these accidents nevertheless cause significant material damage. In many cases, the vehicles involved are no longer drivable after a collision with an animal. Given these massive damages, the DGT is intensively working on strategies to reduce such incidents. One of the latest measures is the introduction of a new traffic sign that explicitly warns of the presence of animals on the road, thereby aiming to sharpen drivers’ attention.
Reacting Correctly in an Emergency: DGT Tips
Authorities emphasize the importance of reacting correctly should an animal suddenly appear on the road. It is strongly recommended to hold the steering wheel firmly, brake if possible, and above all, avoid swerving. A sudden swerve often leads to a loss of control, the vehicle overturning, or leaving the road, which is far more dangerous than colliding with the animal itself. The DGT advises composure to avoid greater damage and injuries.
