August 15, 2014
Several single vehicle traffic crashes on South Burnett roads over the past couple of weeks have been blamed on kangaroos.
But apparently drought-stressed wildlife are causing problems State-wide in a trend which has been identified by RACQ Insurance.
The company has urged motorists to be aware of the danger posed by animals grazing on roadsides.
RACQ spokesman Mike Sopinski said collisions with cattle, kangaroos and other wildlife had risen as drought gripped much of the State.
“Cattle and wildlife often behave unpredictably around traffic,” he said.
“An analysis of our insurance claims data showed 7 per cent of all motor vehicle claims last year were for damage caused by animal strikes.
“We urge motorists to remain vigilant when driving at sunrise and sunset as we are seeing more animals searching for food and water in these drought conditions.”
Claims data also shows that collisions with animals are costly, with the average claim being $3366.
“Irrespective of the circumstances of the collision, legislation exists in Queensland that effectively prevents recovery of any costs from the livestock owner,” Mr Sopinski said.
“The law basically gives livestock ‘right of way’ when they are on a road.”
