Why don't raccoons run whenever a car approaches?

Question

I was driving last night and this raccoon stepped out into the street right as I approached. He kept walking seemingly calm. I felt bad after I hit him but I can't help but wonder, why didn't he run?

Answer 1

Many animals will "freeze" in the presence of danger, hoping their lack of movement will help them escape detection.  You've heard of the "deer in headlights" look.  One trick that sometimes works is to flicker your headlights from high to low and back several times.  I've never tried it with a raccoon, though.

Answer 2

Maybe he didn't see you.

Answer 3

It was probably too late for him to react, just like for you. Raccoons are intelligent animals that are well adapted to urban life. They don't just stand around to be struck by cars.  However, they don't have lightning fast responses like insects or birds. Like they say, c**p happens. Nothing you or the raccoon could do about it.