Deer Runs into Car on DK17 — Police Warn Drivers

9 July 2026 Poland Radar 0 Comments

A deer collision on DK17 injured no one, but the animal died. Police urge drivers to slow down near forests.

On Thursday, July 9, a driver hit a roe deer when it suddenly ran from nearby bushes. The incident happened on national road number 17 in Izbica, Krasnostaw County. The deer collision on DK17 left the animal dead, and police appealed for caution.

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Deer collision on DK17: what happened

The driver operated a Nissan. He is a 74-year-old man. He suffered no injuries. Moreover, police tested him for alcohol. He was sober. Consequently, officers ruled out impairment as a factor. However, the animal did not survive the crash.

Police from Krasnystaw County worked at the scene. They documented the event and collected witness statements. In addition, officers noted that this crash is not isolated. Since June, local police recorded twelve collisions with wild animals in the county. Therefore, authorities stress higher vigilance on roads near woods.

Where and why this matters

DK17 is a national road that crosses rural areas of the Lublin Voivodeship. Consequently, drivers meet fields, shrubs, and forested stretches along this route. Wild animals often live and move here. Moreover, dawn and dusk bring higher movement of deer and other wildlife.

Drivers often underestimate this risk. However, even a brief distraction can turn dangerous. In addition, increased traffic during holiday weekends raises the chance of encounters. Therefore, police recommend reducing speed and scanning the roadside. Also, keeping headlights on when safe can help spot animals earlier.

Practical steps after a collision

If you hit a wild animal, stop where safe. Then call emergency services on 112 if anyone is hurt. Moreover, you should call the local police to make an official report. Officers will record the event and help with next steps. In addition, photograph the scene and the vehicle damage for insurance.

Contact your insurer promptly. Comprehensive auto insurance (often called AC in Poland) may cover damage. However, third-party liability (OC) does not cover your own car. Therefore, check your policy terms. Also, do not take the animal carcass. Polish law protects some wildlife, and taking meat can lead to fines.

💡 GOOD TO KNOW: If you are an expat involved in a collision with wildlife in Poland, call 112 first when there are injuries. Then call the police to obtain a report for insurance. Keep in mind that public health care works through NFZ, so show your EHIC or private insurance card at the hospital. Moreover, ZUS handles work-related benefits if you miss work after an injury. In addition, Polish administration often asks for PESEL or ID number in reports. Therefore, carry your residence permit or passport when driving. Finally, avoid moving the animal and do not try to take its meat. You could face a fine or legal trouble for removing protected wildlife.

Local police in Krasnystaw County will continue patrols on wooded stretches. Consequently, they hope drivers will adjust speed and attention. Moreover, residents living near forests should also watch for animals near their properties. In addition, municipalities may place warning signs in high-risk spots.

For expats, this incident shows how rural driving in Poland differs from urban travel. Roads here cut through natural habitats. Therefore, expect sudden hazards and plan trips accordingly. Also, consider taking out comprehensive insurance and keeping emergency numbers handy.

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