A wild boar caused a traffic accident on the Athens-Corinth National Road near Haidari, a western suburb of Athens, after appearing on the highway and colliding with a passing vehicle.
The incident occurred on Tuesday morning, July 21, 2026, on the road section heading toward Athens. The animal was killed in the collision, while the driver of the vehicle managed to maintain control and avoid a more serious accident.
The condition of the animal suggested it had been struck by a large truck. The truck driver reportedly continued the journey after the collision, with no further consequences reported.
Workers from the Civil Protection team of the Environmental Association of Municipalities of Athens and Piraeus responded to the scene and removed the animal from the road near the Afaia settlement in Haidari.
The wild boar was transported in a specialized vehicle to the organization’s facilities for disposal, following the procedures required by law.
First reported wild boar collision on Athens-Corinth highway
According to PESYDAP President Grigoris Gourdohamichalis, the incident was the first time a wild boar had been involved in a traffic accident on the Athens-Corinth highway, particularly in an urban area such as Haidari.
The area already has warning signs alerting drivers to possible wild boar crossings. However, authorities said the latest incident highlights the need for additional measures to prevent similar accidents.
Authorities warn drivers about wildlife crossings
Collisions with adult wild boars can be particularly dangerous because of the animals’ size and weight. Numerous incidents on major and rural roads across Greece have resulted in serious injuries and, in some cases, fatalities.
In recent years, PESYDAP, in cooperation with the Aigaleo Forestry Service, has carried out repeated operations to capture and remove wild boars from suburban areas and locations along both sides of the Athens-Corinth highway.
Authorities said herds of wild boars are currently moving around both sides of the highway, from Haidari toward Lake Koumoundourou. The animals appear to be travelling between Mount Poikilo, Mount Aigaleo and the Schisto area.
Drivers are advised to exercise extra caution, particularly on roads near forested areas and during dusk and nighttime hours. Recommendations include reducing speed, using high beams when permitted, and remaining alert if a wild boar is spotted crossing the road, as the animals usually move in groups and more may follow.
