Moose Causes Head-On Collision Between Two Dump Trucks
Moose are common throughout New Hampshire, and the government believes that there may be a population of up to 4,000 wandering near the White Mountains. Moose frequently cross various roads and highways in some areas – and they also pose a serious hazard to drivers. Moose are much heavier than deer, and they are capable of causing serious damage to vehicles after impacts. This hazard was made clear after a recent head-on dump truck crash in New Hampshire.
Moose Causes Two Dump Trucks to Collide Head-On
In September of 2024, various sources reported on a New Hampshire dump truck crash caused by a moose. The incident started when a dump truck driver struck a moose on Route 16 before losing control. This dump truck then careened into a second dump truck heading in the opposite direction. The crash injured both dump truck drivers, although one driver clearly received the brunt of the impact. This dump truck driver was transported to a nearby hospital in critical condition. The moose died at the scene.
This incident shows how dangerous moose can be – not only to drivers who impact the animals but also to everyone else on the road.
What Should You Do if You See a Moose on the Road in New Hampshire?
New Hampshire residents should know how to react when they see moose on the road. By following a few basic steps, they can avoid serious injuries and even fatalities. Perhaps the most obvious course of action is to avoid striking the moose at all costs. These animals can weigh well over 1,000 pounds – and they can cause catastrophic damage to passenger vehicles. Some have compared a moose impact to rear-ending a semi-trailer because of the way these impacts affect the top section of the vehicle.
Like a rear trailer, a moose strikes the windshield and roof area after an impact. When a vehicle “kneecaps” a moose at high speed, the animal is so tall that the bulk of their body falls directly into the windshield. This can easily kill or maim occupants.
Despite these physical realities, some believe that it makes more sense to strike the moose as fast as possible. The logic is that if you slam on the brakes, it can launch the moose into the windshield. Slam on the accelerator instead, and you can launch the moose clear over the top of your vehicle while minimizing impacts.
However, most agree that this is just a myth – and a faster impact actually causes more damage – not less. The most logical course of action is to slow down and try to avoid hitting the moose if at all possible. That said, hitting a moose may be preferable to hitting a tree or a concrete barrier. In the end, it is always a difficult, split-second decision.
What Should I Do After a Dump Truck Crash in New Hampshire?
If you were injured in a dump truck crash, consider reaching out to an experienced Manchester truck accident lawyer at Manning Zimmerman & Oliveira PLLC. Even if it seems as though an animal caused your crash, there may still be evidence of human negligence. During a consultation at The Law Office of Manning Zimmerman & Oliveira PLLC, you can discuss the circumstances of your crash in more detail. It may still be possible to recover the compensation you need to cover medical expenses, so reach out today to get started.
Sources:
countryherald.com/news/new-hampshire-moose-on-route-16-leads-to-severe-dump-truck-accident/
wmur.com/article/errol-new-hampshire-route-16-moose-dump-trucks/62084041
