SGIO Research Shows Kangaroos Costly for Western Australian Drivers

Animals, particularly kangaroos, are the cause of more than 30 Western Australian collisions a week, according to new research by SGIO.*

Perth, Western Australia (PRWEB) July 8, 2009 -- Animals, particularly kangaroos, are the cause of more than 30 WA collisions a week, according to new research by car insurance (http://www.sgio.com.au/car-insurance/index.shtml) provider SGIO.*

Last year the insurer received claims for more than 1,700 animal-related collisions with around three quarters caused by kangaroos, costing on average nearly $4,000.

SGIO spokesperson Rob Cory said kangaroo collisions on country roads were a significant and often dangerous problem that peaked during the winter months.

"Unfortunately, at this time of year, many kangaroos are active on our roads and visibility can be poorer due to weather conditions," explained Mr Cory.

"They are often looking for food at sunrise and sunset and it is during this time that an increased number of collisions with vehicles occur."

"Dogs are the second most likely animal to be hit and we also regularly see insurance claims for collisions with cattle, cats and emus."

Mr Cory said how drivers reacted after seeing a kangaroo could potentially save lives.

"If we see a kangaroo on or near the road, we should try and brake, but not swerve to avoid a collision," he said. "If we hit the animal and if it's safe to do so, the driver should also try to help it and move it to the side of the road to prevent further crashes."

South West towns dominated the animal collision count with Collie recording the highest number of collisions, followed by Busselton, Bunbury and the Margaret River-Augusta region.

*Based on SGIO motor and comprehensive car insurance (http://www.sgio.com.au/car-insurance/comprehensive/index.shtml) claims data 2008

WA towns & suburbs No. of animal collisions

Collie - 38

Busselton - 28

Bunbury - 28

Margaret River-Augusta - 26

Esperance - 25

Carnarvon - 23

Exmouth - 22

Manjimup - 21

Kalgoorlie - 21

Albany - 20

Animal No. of animal collisions in WA

Kangaroo - 1,350

Dog - 136

Cattle - 56

Cat - 47

Emu - 34

Bird - 21

Sheep - 15

Horse - 15

Fox - 5

Rabbit - 3

About SGIO

SGIO provides car insurance (http://www.sgio.com.au/car-insurance/index.shtml), motorcycle insurance, home insurance and more for Western Australia.

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