Around 5% of crashes with animals result in injury to humans (FHWA 2016). In NSW over a ten year period 1,708 people were injured and there were 24 deaths from crashes with animals. Kangaroos represented 60% (Ramp and Roper 2014). Single vehicle run-off-road crashes involving drivers avoiding animals were not included in this study.
Animal warning reflectors have been frequently implemented, although their effectiveness remains a subject of discussion due to conflicting study results. These devices work by reflecting headlights into the roadside to stun the animals before they enter the roadway. They have strong advocates, strong opponents, and conflicting results from over 10 studies across the world.
Some other measures trialled around the world in different conditions include:
▪ Passive warning signs
▪ Animal activated warning signs
▪ Lighting
▪ Roadside clearing
▪ In-vehicle animal detection systems
▪ Speed limit reductions (permanent and time based)
▪ Fencing
▪ Driver education
▪ Underpasses and overpasses
▪ Flagging
▪ On-car whistles
▪ Repellents applied to roadside
▪ Intercept feeding (attracting animals to other areas)
Which do you think would be the most effective in your area?
