What is the recommended action if a collision with an animal is inevitable?

When faced with a situation where a collision with an animal is unavoidable, the best action is to brake hard and maintain control of the vehicle. This approach prioritizes safety for both the driver and any passengers as well as minimizing the risk of losing control of the vehicle, which can lead to more severe accidents. By braking firmly, the driver reduces speed, which can mitigate the impact of the collision, potentially preventing serious injury to humans in the vehicle and reducing harm to the animal.

Attempting to swerve to avoid the animal can lead to a loss of vehicle control, increasing the likelihood of crashing into another vehicle, an obstacle, or even rolling the vehicle over. Honking the horn loudly may not deter the animal from moving into the path of the vehicle and can create additional distractions. Speeding up to clear the area can increase the severity of a collision as it makes the impact more forceful, and it could also create danger for other road users. Therefore, braking hard and maintaining control is the most effective course of action in this challenging scenario.