By JONATHON HOWARD
HITTING an animal on the road is a dangerous driving scenario and Noosa residents are being urged to take extra precautions during winter.
Winter months mean shorter days and darkness can quickly descend on the roads.
The Department of Transport and Main Roads wants to remind motorists to be cautious when driving through dark areas, because animals in or next to the roadway are more difficult to spot.
“During the summer, most people are driving during daylight,” a spokesman for Main Roads said.
“We’re now in the time of year when there are a good number of people on the roads at dusk or after dark.”
The spokesman said people carried the same driving habits from summer into winter.
“When it comes to wildlife, people need to be more alert at this time of year,” he said.
“Animals that are easily spotted during daylight are more difficult to detect after dark.”
He explained that slowing down and looking for movement and eye-shine could help a motorist avoid a potentially dangerous collision.
“Vehicle collisions are the number one killer of vertebrate animals,” he said. “It’s also potentially dangerous for humans. Pay attention to road signs that indicate wildlife may be present.
“Roads cut through wildlife habitats across the state,” he said.
“Any animal that occurs in a region can certainly find its way onto a roadway and if a motorist isn’t paying attention there can be consequences.”
To report any road issues to Main Roads phone 131 940.
