Here's why:
* Squirrels are not considered "property" under the law. This means hitting one doesn't cause any financial damage or legal liability in the same way as hitting a car or person.
* Traffic laws focus on road safety and preventing harm to humans. There are no specific rules or regulations about hitting animals, especially small ones like squirrels.
However, it's important to note:
* Driving responsibly and safely is always paramount. Even if you're not breaking any laws, swerving or braking suddenly to avoid a squirrel could create a dangerous situation for yourself and other drivers.
* Some jurisdictions may have laws regarding animal cruelty. While running over a squirrel is unlikely to fall under this category, intentionally harming an animal could be illegal.
Ultimately, it's best to be a responsible driver, aware of your surroundings, and avoid causing any harm to animals or humans.