(PRWEB) July 17, 2011
Animals, particularly kangaroos, were the cause of more than 16,000 collisions on Australia’s roads in 2010, according to SGIO claims data.*
Last year the insurer received more than 1,200 claims involving a collision with a kangaroo on WA roads. SGIO Car Insurance Head of Research Robert McDonald said kangaroos continued to pose a serious hazard on country roads.
‘Kangaroos are often looking for food at sunrise and sunset and it’s during this time that an increased number of collisions occur,’ Mr McDonald said.
‘We want to urge all drivers to be aware when at the wheel. How you react when you see a kangaroo on the road can potentially save lives.
‘Drivers should also be mindful when dogs and cats are near the road with claims data showing that dogs are the second most likely animal to be involved in a collision.’
SGIO Car Insurance received more than 360 claims for animal-related collisions in the Perth metro area in 2010, while Busselton recorded the highest number of claims in regional WA.
SGIO advice for drivers:
- if you see a kangaroo on or near a road try and brake but don’t swerve to avoid it
- if you hit the animal and, if safety permits, you can 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
- don’t force an animal to eat or drink and call a local vet or wildlife rescue centre.
Top 20 WA Cities : No. of animal collisions
1. Perth metro area : 365
2. Busselton : 66
3. August – Margaret River : 49
4. Capel : 43
5. Manjimup : 33
6. Collie : 33
7. Exmouth : 31
8. Carnarvon : 28
9. Bunbury : 21
10. Albany : 20
11. Esperance : 19
12. Nannup : 16
13. Toodyay : 16
14. Kalgoorlie/Boulder : 14
15. Denmark : 13
16. Geraldton : 13
17. Port Hedland : 13
18. Harvey : 13
19. Narrogin : 10
20. Broome : 10
*Based on SGIO motor comprehensive claims data for the 2010 calendar year.
SGIO is a leading insurance provider, offering Home Insurance, Car Insurance, Motorcycle Insurance, Travel Insurance, Business Insurance, Boat Insurance, Health Insurance and Caravan Insurance in Western Australia.
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