Driver beware, Kangaroo collisions up 32 per cent during autumn period

Kangaroos account for 82 per cent of all animal collision insurance claims on the road

New claims data from insurer QBE has revealed that over eight out of ten car insurance claims caused by animal collisions in Australia are kangaroo-related.

The data also revealed that a run in with a 'roo is 32 per cent more likely to occur during the months of March to May, with claims volumes typically peaking during the autumn period.

With many Aussies about to hit the road for their Easter breaks, QBE's Chief Customer Officer, Personal Line, Eleanor Debelle, urges drivers to stay vigilant while on the roads.

"The autumn period is typically when we see the largest rise in kangaroo motor claims being lodged. This time of year coincides with school holidays and the end of daylight savings. With less light on the road and kangaroos typically being most active at dusk and dawn, it can be a recipe for disaster."

QBE's data revealed that most kangaroo collisions took place at dawn and dusk between 5am - 7am and 5pm - 8pm.

The data also revealed the top kangaroo collision hotspots across Australia.

Source: QBE claims data

"It's quite concerning to see that the kangaroo collision hotspots are in areas that host popular regional holiday destinations and routes. These areas are typically where kangaroo populations are higher and contain roads where people can travel at high speeds," continued Ms Debelle.

Incidents involving kangaroos can not only ruin your holiday and ensure a trip to a smash repairer, they can also be very dangerous and costly, with QBE data revealing a kangaroo run in causes an average of $5,000 in damage.

Owner at Young Smash Repairers, Jimmy Robinson, has experienced a kangaroo collision firsthand and says he's also expecting many collision repair jobs this Easter.

"Every day I can see between one to six cars that have hit a kangaroo. Typically, those numbers are at the higher end of the scale when we come out of summer and into autumn. We see lots of holidays interrupted when people have to leave their cars at our shop to be fixed.

"They're big animals and at night you might not even see them. I've hit a kangaroo myself, it jumped in front of me without notice, I didn't see it coming."

QBE recommends the following tips for drivers this Easter break.

1. Drop your speed and stay alert in unfamiliar or wildlife populated areas.
2. Try and avoid travelling at dawn and dusk.
3. Make sure your insurance details are up to date.
4. If you come across a kangaroo, brake to avoid a collision – don't swerve.
5. If you're in an accident, prioritise safety. Call 000 if needed, then contact your insurer.
6. If you hit a kangaroo, contact a wildlife rescue organisation or the local police.
7. If you don't already have comprehensive car insurance cover, look into this before you travel.