RACV Insurance claims data has revealed that on average there are two vehicle collisions with animals every week in the Northern Grampians, making the shire the worst area for such incidents in Wimmera/Mallee.
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The RACV Insurance figures for 2013 show that Loddon Shire and the Rural City of Mildura are the next high risk areas.
RACV General Manager Insurance, Paul Northey said collisions with animals happened at all hours, but most occurred at dawn or dusk.
"Kangaroos are the most common animal to be struck by vehicles that resulted in an insurance claim and motorists should take care at all hours and in all seasons when travelling on regional roads," he said.
"RACV received a total of 3641 kangaroo-related claims, costing on average $3685. There were 245 claims for damage caused by collisions with dogs and 244 claims following impacts with wombats.
"While the months of March, April, May and June recorded the highest number of collisions across the state with at least 250 claims associated with kangaroos, dogs or wombats, in May alone the figure was almost double with 459 incidents."
Mr Northey said motorists should slow down when travelling round bends and over crest as these could obscure animals that may have wandered onto the side of the road.
"You should also be cautious if there are warning signs advising of wildlife in the area, or if you see dead animals on the side of the road," he said.
"It is pleasing that many members of the public report injured animals to the relevant wildlife organisations. RACV encourages motorists who find sick, orphaned or injured wildlife to call Wildlife Victoria on 1300 094 535 as soon as it is safe and practicable to do so."
Mr Northey said motorists should make sure that they had adequate comprehensive insurance coverage to ensure they recovered all costs following a collision.
"Colliding with an animal, whether it is on a country highway or an urban road, not only puts you and your family at risk of serious injury, it can also prove very costly," he said.