VEHICLE collisions with animals are playing an increasingly larger role in crashes.
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RACV statistics show insurance claims for animal collisions across the state have risen, with more than 5300 claims made for collisions with animals in the 2016-16 financial year.
Kangaroo collisions are most represented with 82 per cent of all claims for animal collisions to RACV in the 2015-16 financial year.
University of Melbourne Associate Professor Rodney Van Der Ree said the rate of vehicle collisions with animals depended on the presence of the animals and the speed of vehicles.
Professor Van Der Ree said traffic volume was increasing in high animal populated areas. He said places where animals crossed between trees and grass to feed was where they were typically hit.
Many people believe roadkill is a reality of country living – but experts said road design approaches could minimise the risk of animal collisions. Wildlife corridors, animal underpasses and rope bridges on major roads can play an active role in reducing the threat.
VicRoads acting regional director Mal Kersting said safety was a priority and the organisation was looking at a range of solutions to keep animals and drivers safe.
Wildlife Victoria operations supervisor Emily Small said drivers abandoning injured animals after a collision was too common.
“One out of 10 calls we receive about an injured kangaroo on the road is from the actual member of the public who had hit it,” she said.
Miss Small said drivers should check a kangaroo’s pouch because a joey could survive the impact of a crash. But, she said, if they are abandoned they eventually die of stress, dehydration or food poisoning.
Miss Small said it was rare for a kangaroo to recover from a crash.
“The adrenaline takes over, but their stress levels are high, which releases a toxin. They can die painfully within an hour or a few weeks,” she said.
Miss Small said injured animals were sent to the Horsham Veterinary Clinic and Animal Hospital for treatment. However, Wildlife Victoria are short on volunteers in the region and required more to respond to reports.
She said drivers could phone Wildlife Victoria on 8400 7300 to report injured animals.