Beware of wildlife accidents! New measures in the Ludwigslust-Parchim district

Beware of wildlife accidents! New measures in the Ludwigslust-Parchim district

The Ludwigslust-Parchim district is faced with a serious game problem, particularly on the B321 between Bandenitz and Hagenow. Statistics show that every second accident here is a wildlife accident. In the years from 2015 to the end of 2024, there were a total of 32,297 wildlife accidents, which corresponds to an average of 3,230 per year. These high numbers make it clear that there is a need for action. Numerous efforts have already been made to raise awareness among drivers about the dangers on roads, which often lead through forests or border fields.

As the SVZ Reportedly, large “Caution Wild” signs and “wildlife accident tripods” were set up to increase the attention of road users. These measures complement existing signs in vulnerable places such as the B104 between Cambs and Weitendorf and the L05 from Wittenburg to Boddin. There is a particular risk of accidents at night or at dusk, when the game is most active.

Increased number of accidents in autumn

Autumn also begins as a time when accidents involving wildlife occur more frequently. This was also done by the Consumer Protection Forum Berlin thematised. Roads in the region are particularly dangerous as many roads simply cut through forested and open landscapes. A look at the accident statistics confirms: In recent years, the streets of Ludwigslust-Parchim have often been the scene of tragic incidents, including two fatal accidents and many serious and minor injuries.

Andrea Leirich, the managing director of the state traffic watchdog, emphasizes that the speed of the vehicle driver is the decisive factor in significantly reducing accidents involving wildlife. “Careful driving is the be-all and end-all here,” she emphasizes. In the future, there will be increased speed controls on routes rich in wildlife in order to observe how well road users react to the dangers.

The danger of large wild animals

In the district, it is primarily red deer that can cause dangerous situations in traffic. These animals can weigh up to 350 kilograms and therefore pose a real danger if they collide with a vehicle. Dietmar Jörs, head of the traffic watchdog, also points out that a hit animal can also pose a danger to other road users if, for example, it is thrown into oncoming traffic.

In view of these circumstances, first deputy district administrator Lukas Völsch is concerned about the situation throughout the district. The focus is now on effectively reducing the number of accidents through targeted preventive measures. By raising awareness among road users of the dangers, it is hoped that the shocking statistics of recent years can be significantly reduced.