Roe deer and moose killed on Saratov roads over two years

Damage to wildlife over the past two years from traffic accidents has exceeded 5 million rubles (approximately $55,600 at current rates). According to the Committee of Hunting and Fishing of Saratov Region, such accidents inflict significant harm on nature.

In 2025, 81 claims for compensation for animal deaths were filed, including those from traffic accidents. Over the last two years, 46 roe deer and 26 moose have been killed under car wheels. Accidents have also involved wild boars, hares, and game birds. The total compensated damage for 2024–2025 exceeded 5 million rubles (approximately $55,600). In 43 cases, at-fault drivers compensated the damage voluntarily; in 12 instances, the court made decisions, which in 100% of cases ruled in favor of such claims.

According to committee statistics, 40 to 60 traffic accidents involving wild animals occur annually in the region. The most dangerous roads in this regard are in the Kalininsky, Gagarinsky, Engelssky, Tatishchevsky, Marxovsky, Volsky, and Lysogorsky districts. The peak of accidents occurs in late summer and autumn—the rutting season for ungulates.

Drivers are reminded to be extremely attentive on country highways, especially at dusk, at night, and in sections passing through wooded areas. It is recommended to use high beams and reduce speed when animals appear near the road.

In the event of a traffic accident with a wild animal, it is necessary to call the traffic police (GIBDD) and an ambulance (if there are victims). Leaving the scene, the driver risks losing their license, and attempting to take the carcass can be considered illegal hunting. The amount of damage is 30 thousand rubles (approximately $333) for a wild boar, 40 thousand rubles (approximately $444) for a roe deer, and 80 thousand rubles (approximately $889) for a moose. If the driver has an OSAGO (compulsory motor third-party liability insurance) policy, the damage is recovered from the insurance company.