Drivers take out 690 animals

A STAGGERING number of collisions involving vehicles and animals have been recorded by RACQ insurance data so far this year.

Darling Downs drivers were involved in collisions with 690 wildlife animals, more commonly on long stretches of road like the Warrego Highway.

The state insurance data revealed there were 12,798 claims for collisions with animals in the three-year period from 1 July 2017.

“Drivers should be especially cautious during dawn and dusk, when animals are more likely to be seeking food or shelter alongside roads,” RACQ spokeswoman Lucinda Ross said.

“Remember to slow down and take care, and if you do hit an animal and it survives, please call your local animal rescue service.”

Ms Ross said with border restrictions in place, many holiday-makers continued to opt for a Queensland road trip, which was great for the economy, but could be dangerous for wildlife.

“We’re right in the middle of the peak time for animal collisions, with our data showing June through to October are the worst months for these crashes,” Ms Ross said.

Ms Ross said drivers were more prone to accidents with animals at specific times of the day, and urged drivers to remain vigilant when on long stretches of road.

“The data speaks for itself – if you’re driving at dawn or dusk, you’re more likely to have a crash with an animal because that’s when they’re feeding on the roadside,” she said.

“Avoid these times if you can, make sure you always stick to the speed limit, and stay aware of what’s ahead.”