Campaigners have launched a new attempt to cut the number of animal accidents in the New Forest amid fears a motorist could be killed.
Companies are being urged to join the newly-launched New Forest Drive Safe, which provides businesses with advice on how to make staff more aware of what happen on dark, unlit roads.
More than 60 accidents have occurred since the start of the year, resulting in 36 animals being killed or injured.
Gilly Jones, of New Forest Roads Awareness, said: ‘Many people who drive through the Forest every day are aware of the risks but don’t always realise how unpredictable animals can be, especially in poor light or bad weather.
"The New Forest Drive Safe campaign gives businesses a way to help share that awareness among their teams.
‘It’s about changing habits, encouraging drivers to slow down, and reminding everyone that the Forest’s animals always have right of way."
Forestry England Community Manager Charlotte Belcher said accidents could happen to anyone at any time of the day or night.
She added: "We can all improve safety by driving with care through this special place and making sure we pass animals wide and slow."
READ MORE: Image shows devastating consequence of animal accident in the New Forest
Organisations involved in the new campaign include the Commoners Defence Association (CDA), which represents the owners of the New Forest's free-roaming animals.
Chairman Andrew Parry-Norton said: "Signing up to this scheme is a great example for local businesses to show they understand why their drivers should take extra care while travelling across the Forest."
"Whatever size your business is, if you have drivers who drive through the Forest, I would strongly encourage you to join the scheme."
The new campaign coincides with the clocks going back and the nights drawing in. Most animal accidents occur during the winter, when more journeys are undertaken in darkness or bad weather.
New Forest Roads Awareness has taken to social media to highlight the number of accidents that have already occurred this year.
Its latest post refers to a recent incident in which a pony was killed when it crashed through a car windscreen near Beaulieu.
Warning that worse could follow if current trends continue it adds: "There might just be a human fatal."
Companies can join New Forest Drive Safe by filling out a form on the CDA website
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