Watch out for wildlife on western roads, especially at dusk and dawn
Motorists across western NSW are being reminded to be on high alert for wildlife and livestock straying onto the road as shorter days will see more cars on the roads at dusk and dawn.
The onset of the cooler months and changes in travel patterns at the end of daylight saving in April can mean increased risks for motorists as animals are most active as the sun rises and sets.
Transport for NSW Regional Director West, Alistair Lunn is urging motorists to be extra vigilant and if possible, plan your trips to avoid driving at these times.
“Even though we’re aware not all incidents are reported, the number of collisions between animals and vehicles on western NSW roads is significant,” Mr Lunn said.
“And these crashes are more at risk now due to seasonal factors including the recent dry weather and shorter daylight hours.
“Now we’re well into autumn, the recent end of daylight saving will also result in more vehicles being out on the road at dusk and dawn when animals are at their most active and drivers’ visibility is reduced.
“Our own conversations with panel beaters confirm collisions have been on the rise again so now is the perfect time to remind all motorists of the need for extra care.”
In the five-year period from 2018 to 2022, there were 292 crashes involving animal strikes reported on western NSW roads, resulting in 154 casualty crashes with 180 casualties including 56 people seriously injured, 77 moderately injured, 43 minor injuries and, sadly, four deaths.
The figures also show that 83 per cent of crashes in the western region occur on roads zoned 100 km/h and above, when motorists have less time to react to unpredictable animals.
“If a driver encounters an animal they should brake if it’s safe to do so and, most importantly, resist the urge to swerve to miss the animal,” Mr Lunn said.
“It’s safer to strike an animal than to swerve and risk losing control of the vehicle - twice as many people are killed and injured in crashes resulting from swerving.”
A new safety campaign running from April 15-28 aims to increase awareness about the dangers of animals on western NSW roads, particularly among younger and less experienced drivers, and urges drivers to make good decisions behind the wheel.
“When animals do stray onto the road they will often move very quickly and their behaviour can be quite unpredictable, so it is important to give them plenty of room,” Mr Lunn said.
“And when you’re driving on country roads, always take note of warning signs alerting you to the presence of animals in the area. If you see these signs, slow down, stay alert and be prepared to stop if required.”
Safe driving on country roads
• Reduce your speed: Slow down and be on the lookout for wildlife on or near the road.
• Stay alert: Animals can be more active near waterholes and creeks and harder to see at sunrise and sunset.
• Brake safely: Apply your brakes in a careful, controlled manner.
• Don’t swerve: You may lose control of your vehicle if you swerve too harshly.
• Follow the signs: Take note of warning signs alerting you to the presence of animals in the area.
• Report injured wildlife: Call WIRES on 1300 094 737 or use the IFAW Wildlife rescue app to find a suitable wildlife rescue organisation for your location.