ORLANDO, Fla. – If you’ve ever slammed on your brakes because a raccoon, gator or deer decided to cross the road like they owned it, you’re not alone. Florida’s got beaches, sunshine and, yes, wildlife. Lots of it. And it’s not unusual to come across animals in the middle of your morning commute.
So, how should you react? More importantly, how can you keep yourself (and the animals) safe?
Here are six things I always tell drivers when it comes to Florida wildlife on the road:
1. Don’t swerve. Brake straight and stay in control
I get it. Your instinct is to yank the wheel and avoid the animal. But that move can be more dangerous than hitting the brakes. Swerving could send you into oncoming traffic or a tree. Hit the brakes, hold steady and stay in your lane.
2. Use those high beams — safely
If you’re out in the sticks and there’s no oncoming traffic, turn on your high beams. You’d be surprised how many animal eyes you can catch glowing in the distance. That extra second of visibility could save you a wreck — or a raccoon.
3. Pay attention to wildlife crossing signs
Those yellow signs with deer or panthers? Not there for decoration. If you see one, it means animals regularly cross in that area. Slow down, stay alert and don’t ignore the warning.
4. Dawn and dusk are prime animal time
Most wildlife likes to move around when we’re least expecting it — early morning or just after sunset. Your visibility’s already low, and now you’ve got a surprise guest? Stay extra alert during those hours.
5. If you hit an animal, don’t get out and play hero
Florida wildlife can be unpredictable, especially if they’re injured. Stay in your car and call it in. Whether it’s FWC or local police, let the pros handle it. That 8-foot gator doesn’t want a hug, trust me.
6. Lock up trash and food in your vehicle
Headed to the springs? Camping? Wrapping up a beach day? Don’t toss food or trash loosely in your truck bed. The smell alone could bring animals roadside — and now you’ve created a buffet next to moving cars.
Bottom line: Florida’s got its fair share of surprises on the road, and some of them have fur, feathers or scales. Respect the road, stay aware and let’s keep each other and our wild neighbors safe.
See something wild on the road? Let me know. I might just head out there for a closer look.