Tasmania’s biggest animal collision hotspot has been revealed, with a new national study showing the Apple Isle is among the worst places in the country for animal-related road accidents.
The analysis of more than 21,000 AAMI animal collision claims across the country in 2023 found the worst animal collision hotspot in Tasmania is Kingston.
Nationally, Dubbo in New South Wales holds the dubious title of Australia’s worst animal collision hotspot, followed by Sunbury in Victoria and Goulburn in New South Wales.
The study also found that animal collisions have increased by 22 per cent year-on-year, with the cooler months being the most dangerous time of year for animal collisions.
More than a quarter (28 per cent) of road accidents involving wildlife take place between June to August, with dusk being the most dangerous time, accounting for a quarter of accidents from 4:30pm- 8pm.
Research from AAMI found more than 40 per cent of Aussie drivers don’t pay attention to wildlife warning signs and most drivers (60 per cent) would dangerously swerve or slam on the brakes to avoid colliding with an animal.
“AAMI’s research found only around a quarter of Aussies would keep driving, even if it meant hitting an animal and damaging their car,” AAMI Motor Claims Manager Leah James said.
“During Winter, days are shorter and many of us are on the road when there’s low light in the early mornings and late afternoons. This coincides with when nocturnal mammals are most active, so drivers need to be more vigilant and on the lookout for wildlife.”
James said it can be more dangerous to swerve to avoid hitting an animal than to keep driving, as swerving can mean losing control of a car and increase the chances of colliding with a tree, pole or another vehicle.
“To avoid a collision with wildlife, slow down when you see warning signs, scan the road ahead and use your peripheral vision to keep an eye on the edges for wildlife feeding or about to cross,” she said.
In Tasmania, AAMI say the worst car make and model for animal collisions is a Toyota Corolla, with the majority of incidents occurring on Sunday between 8pm and 12am.
While Kingston took the top spot, Cambridge came a close second. Hobart City ranked at 3, Brighton at 4 and Launceston at 5.