Dusk remains the most dangerous time for wildlife collisions – here’s how to stay safe

For 4×4 enthusiasts exploring Australia’s backroads, wildlife collisions are an ongoing hazard. Recent data from insurer AAMI shows crashes involving animals on regional roads are frequent and costly, with serious consequences for both motorists and native wildlife.

Between July 1 2024 and June 30 2025, AAMI analysed 23,840 claims for wildlife-related accidents. Nearly one in five vehicles involved – around 18 per cent – were written off, with average repair bills of approximately $8000. Dusk remains the riskiest time for collisions, as animals become more active and visibility drops. Kangaroos were the most commonly hit species, followed by wallabies, wombats, deer, feral pigs and emus.

Victoria recorded the highest number of wildlife collisions (7851), while regional hotspots across the country included Dubbo (NSW), Sunbury (Vic) and Broken Hill (NSW). Friday proved to be the worst day of the week, most likely due to increased weekend travel.

“These figures show the serious and often costly consequences of wildlife collisions on our country roads,” said Tim Buckett, AAMI Executive General Manager Motor Claims Customer. “Not only do these accidents pose a significant risk to motorists and their vehicles, but they also have a tragic impact on our native wildlife. We urge all drivers to exercise extreme caution, especially when driving during dawn and dusk, and in known wildlife areas.”

Environmental pressures such as drought, floods, bushfires and habitat loss have also pushed more native animals onto roads, making them increasingly vulnerable while seeking food or shelter.

“Extreme weather events over the past 12 months continue to impact our native animals especially in regional Australia with many regions affected by ongoing drought, severe floods and bushfires,” said Leanne Taylor, Chief Executive Officer at Wildlife Information, Rescue and Education Service (WIRES). “During these weather events, native animals are forced out of their usual habitat and are increasingly at risk as they cross roads and highways seeking refuge and shelter.

“This is further compounded by ongoing loss of habitat through development and land clearing with many species including kangaroos, wallabies, wombats and koalas being displaced and vulnerable to car strikes as they search for new habitat.”

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10 tips 4×4 drivers tackling country roads at dusk and dawn

1. Reduce speed: Slower speeds give you more time to react to wildlife crossing the road.
2. Use high beams and aftermarket LED lighting: Improve visibility on unlit roads, but dip for oncoming traffic.
3. Install a bull bar: Provides added protection for your vehicle in the event of a collision with larger animals.
4. Stay alert and scan ahead: Watch the roadside edges for movement, especially in bushland or paddocks.
5. Avoid distractions: Keep focus on the road and surroundings; limit phone or infotainment use.
6. Know the hotspots: Familiarise yourself with areas known for kangaroos, wallabies, and other wildlife.
7. Drive defensively: Expect animals to move unpredictably, and be prepared to brake safely.
8. Keep a rescue kit in your rig: Include a towel, gloves, and a box for injured joeys or chicks.
9. Follow wildlife signage: Council and state warning signs indicate frequent animal activity.
10. Report animal strikes safely: Contact WIRES or local authorities to help injured wildlife and prevent further accidents.

Animal collisions: Australia-wide

Animal collisions: Victoria

Animal collisions: NSW

Animal collisions: Queensland

Animal collisions: South Australia

Animal collisions: Western Australia

Animal collisions: ACT

Animal collisions: Northern Territory

Animal collisions: Tasmania

*AAMI data based on analysis of 23,840 claims received between July 1, 2024, and June 30, 2025