Collision damage from animal strikes is on the rise with average claims now exceeding $8000, a leading insurer has said.
RACV has revealed it received ,more than 23,000 claims for kangaroo-related collisions, with the full 2024 year recording the highest number of claims (5,883).
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The average RACV claim total following collision with an animal in the 2025 financial year was $8,984.
It was unclear whether these strikes also included wallabies, populous in forested areas, feral deer which are on the rise in Victoria, and errant livestock.
A 2023 DPE study estimated there were 190,000 feral deer in Victoria, with 120,000 of these being Sambar Deer.
These deer reach heights of 130cm and can weigh 300 kg, making a vehicle collision a dangerous prospect with a likelihood some vehicles could be written off in a high speed crash.
Repairers in some parts of the state have also reported serious backlogs and long delays for drivable repairs from animal strikes.
RACV General Manager Insurance and Roadside Bill Bloodworth said collisions with wildlife are unfortunately common across Victoria, especially in areas where urban development meets regional roads.
“We do see a pattern of higher claim volumes during the cooler months, particularly from April to August, when kangaroo movement increases and daylight hours are shorter,” Bloodworth said.
“Motorists should slow down, stay alert and scan the roadside – especially at dawn and dusk, when kangaroos are most active.”
Top areas
RACV also revealed its top 10 areas for kangaroo-related crashes since 2021 which are all regional higher density areas with country/urban interface.
- Sunbury (234 claims)
- Heathcote (195)
- Wallan (192)
- Benalla (182)
- Bacchus Marsh (179)
- Bendigo (170)
- Ballarat (169)
- Gisborne (164)
- Woodend (160)
- Kyneton (156)
Staying safe
RACV tips to avoid animal collisions:
- Be aware of peak times: Kangaroos are most active at dawn, dusk and night.
- Slow down: Reduce speed in areas with wildlife signage or when visibility is poor.
- Scan ahead: Look both sides of the road and the edges of the tree line for movement.
- Avoid swerving: If a collision is unavoidable, brake firmly in a straight line.
- Use high beams: When safe to do so, high beams can help detect animals further ahead.
Bloodworth added that while hitting a kangaroo can be distressing, motorists should prioritise safety.
“If you’re involved in a collision, pull over safely, activate hazard lights and check on passengers. If anyone is injured, call 000. If the animal is injured, contact local wildlife services on (03) 8400 7300.”
For more information on what to do if you collide with wildlife, visit here.