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Kangaroos and WA drivers don't mix

11/02/2010
Animals, particularly kangaroos, were the cause of more than 20,000 collisions on Australia's roads in 2009, according to SGIO claims data.*

Last year the insurer received more than 1,300 claims involving a collision with a kangaroo on WA roads. SGIO spokesperson Rob Cory said kangaroo collisions on
country roads were a significant problem.

“Unfortunately, many kangaroos are active on our roads and looking for food at sunrise and sunset; it’s during this time that an increased number of collisions occur,” he said.

Mr Cory said that although most animal collisions occurred on country roads, Perth drivers should be just as mindful of dogs and cats near the road, especially as dogs were the second most likely animal to be hit.

SGIO received more than 200 claims involving animal collisions in the Perth metro area in 2009, while in regional WA Collie recorded the highest number of claims for animal related collisions (49), followed by Exmouth, Carnarvon and Busselton.

SGIO advice for drivers:

• if you see a kangaroo on or near the road try and brake but don’t swerve to avoid a collision;
• if you hit the animal and, if safety permits, you should try to help by moving it to the side of the road to prevent further crashes;
• if the animal is still alive, keep it warm and in a quiet place away from noises; and
• don’t force an animal to eat or drink and call a local vet or wildlife rescue centre.

“How you react after seeing a kangaroo can potentially save lives,” Mr Cory said.

* Based on SGIO motor comprehensive claims data sourced in February 2010 for the period of Jan to Dec 2009.

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