ANIMAL collisions in Queensland are set to rise in the cooler months with more animals likely to be on the roads.
AAMI spokeswoman Ashleigh Paterson said now was the time for drivers to be extra vigilant.
“As the days shorten, motorists are sharing the road with animals for longer periods of time as they are most active during dawn or dusk,” she said.
“Wildlife is unpredictable, so we encourage drivers to always expect the unexpected on the road, particularly in signposted wildlife areas.
“Simple things like being aware of your surroundings, driving to the speed limits, and being extra vigilant at dawn and dusk can help keep you and our wildlife safe.”
AAMI data also shows Queensland motorists are most likely to collide with a kangaroo, wallaby or dog.
Other collisions reported also occured with cows, emus, birds, foxes and a turkey.
Last year, Scenic Rim residents were calling for action on stray cattle after a woman was injured when her car hit a cow wandering on the Cunningham Highway at Cunningham’s Gap.
Scenic Rim mayor Greg Christensen said council had received 10 calls regarding livestock on the highway and three calls on Mount Lindesay Highway in three months.
Prior to the incident, Beaudesert Times reported on several crashes in relation to motorists hitting live stock, including former Scenic Rim mayor John Brent’s vehicle having crashed into a stray horse last June.
Other incidents were reported at Kents Pocket near Boonah and Laravale.
Tips to avoid animal collisions
- If you notice road kill, slow down and pay extra attention. It’s an indicator of wildlife in the area.
- If you spot a kangaroo crossing the road, it's a sign that more kangaroos will be following as they move in groups.
- If you see an animal on the road, slow down and brake, but avoid swerving so as not to endanger yourself and other drivers on the road.
- If you’re involved in a collision with an animal, stop to check its welfare, but only if it is safe to do so. If the animal is alive and injured call your local wildlife rescue service.
Jocelyn Garcia
Jocelyn is a journalist at the Redland City Bulletin, covering education issues and school stories. She was a former journalist at Beaudesert Times, reporting about crime, schools and agriculture.
Jocelyn is a journalist at the Redland City Bulletin, covering education issues and school stories. She was a former journalist at Beaudesert Times, reporting about crime, schools and agriculture.
