Roos a road risk for WA motorists
29/05/2008
Damage caused by a cow licking a vehicle and a swarm of bees are just some of the more unusual animal-related insurance claims, but it is kangaroos that pose the greatest animal-related risk to drivers on WA roads.
More than 40 WA motorists a week are involved in an animal-related collision according to new research released today by SGIO.*
Last year the insurer recorded nearly 2000 animal related collisions with kangaroos accounting for more than 79 per cent of these claims.
SGIO State Manager Colin Tierney said animals; especially kangaroos are a real danger to motorists on country roads.
“Kangaroos will often look for food and water near busy roads or even in urban areas.
“Motorists should drive with caution at all times, and we encourage them to slow down at dawn and dusk especially during the winter months when we see a 10 per cent increase in roo collisions,” he said.
SGIO estimates that animal collisions last year cost the WA community more than $23 million.
“Unfortunately the problem isn’t isolated to regional areas. Motorists in Perth need to be on the look out for domestic animals as we also see a number of collisions involving cats and dogs.
“If you see an animal on or near the road, you should try and brake, but not swerve to avoid a collision. However if you hit the animal and safety permits, motorists should try to help it and move it to the side of the road to prevent further crashes.
“If the animal has been hurt, keep it warm, quiet and away from young children, pets and noises. Don’t force the animal to eat or drink and contact a local vet or a wildlife rescue centre.”
|
Town |
Number of animal collisions |
Town |
Number of animal collisions |
|
Collie |
50 |
Kalgoorlie |
20 |
|
Busselton |
43 |
Manjimup |
20 |
|
Carnarvon |
42 |
Albany |
19 |
|
Margaret River |
37 |
Esperance |
19 |
|
Geraldton |
30 |
Kalbarri |
16 |
|
Exmouth |
29 |
Pinjarra |
14 |
|
Perth |
27 |
Mandurah |
12 |
|
Bunbury |
23 |
Eneabba |
12 |
|
Nannup |
21 |
Armadale |
11 |
|
Karratha |
20 |
Dunsborough |
9 |