JUNE 1 2018 – 1:30P
NEARLY one-third of the collisions with animals recorded by motoring body RACQ in the Redlands over the last three years have been in Mount Cotton.
BE ALERT: RACQ research has found most animal collisions occur in the winter months. Photo: RACQ
RACQ data shows 96 collisions in the Redlands for three years up until April 30.
Of those 30 occurred at Mount Cotton, 17 at Capalaba, 14 at Redland Bay and 12 at Sheldon.
RACQ spokeswoman Kirsty Clinton said they were appealing to motorists to be extra vigilant over coming months as winter was the worst time for collisions with animals on Queensland roads.
Ms Clinton said they had received more than 10,000 insurance claims for collisions with animals in the past three years, with June, July and August the highest risk months.
“RACQ has seen a seven per cent increase from 2016-2017 in crashes involving animals, and it’s raised serious concerns for drivers,” she said.
“Our data shows the cooler months are a peak time for these types of crashes, so as we head into winter we’re pleading with motorists to be on high alert.”
Redland City Council have also appealed for motorists to stick to the speed limit after echidnas were killed or injured in recent weeks.
Mayor Karen Williams said a hot spot was Double Jump Road, Redland Bay near Sandy Creek Conservation Area and other incidents had occurred on Kinross Road, Thornlands, Bunker Road, Victoria Point and Mount Cotton Road, Capalaba.
Ms Clinton said more than 30 per cent of their members had hit an animal while driving.
“If you’re driving in an area where animals could be present, slow down and take note of any signage about local wildlife,” Ms Clinton said.
“Avoid driving at dawn and dusk when animals are out foraging. With less green grass available in winter time, animals are often seen on the roadside looking for food.
“Most importantly, never get behind the wheel unless you’re absolutely up to the task of driving. If you’re distracted, tired or under the influence of drugs or alcohol your reaction time will be slower than normal.”
Across Queensland 1173 claims had occurred in July (from 2015 to 2017), 1139 in August and 1064 in June.
The fewest were 559 claims in February.
RACQ-reported collisions with animals over three years until April 30, 2018:
REDLAND CITY TOTAL 96
Mount Cotton 30
Capalaba 17
Redland Bay 14
Sheldon 12
Thornlands 7
Alexandra Hills 6
Victoria Point 4
Dunwich 2
Birkdale 2
Point Lookout 1
Cleveland 1
