Driving at dusk and wildlife
Wildlife is most active around dawn and dusk. If a kangaroo jumps out, brake firmly in a straight line rather than swerving. After a collision, pull over safely, turn on hazard lights and check your passengers, then contact local wildlife services about an injured animal and follow the rental company's incident process.
Updated
Key facts
- Higher-risk period
- Slow down and look out for animals on the road, especially at dawn and dusk
- Avoid swerving
- Brake firmly in a straight line
- First response
- Pull over safely, turn on hazard lights and check your passengers; call 000 if anyone is injured
- Injured kangaroo
- Avoid approaching it, as kangaroos can be dangerous when scared or hurt
- Wildlife services
- Contact local wildlife services about an injured animal; in Victoria RACV gives (03) 8400 7300
When is wildlife most likely on the road?
In Tasmania, drivers are asked to slow down and look out for animals on the road, especially at dawn and dusk, and to watch for wildlife and roadkill at night and in the early morning. Where practical, plan longer regional legs so you finish before dark. This is a route decision, not just a driving technique.
What should you do if a kangaroo appears?
Do not swerve if a kangaroo jumps out in front of you. Brake firmly and in a straight line instead. Keep scanning both the road and its edges on regional approaches.
What should you do after a collision?
Pull over safely, turn on your hazard lights and check on your passengers. If anyone is injured, call 000. Avoid approaching an injured kangaroo, as it can be dangerous when scared or hurt, and contact local wildlife services instead. Then follow the rental company's incident process.
Will hire car cover pay for animal damage?
Whether the hire car agreement covers animal damage depends on its terms, the excess and any exclusions. Before a remote trip, find the rental company's emergency contact and learn how to report an animal collision even if the car remains driveable.
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Questions people ask
What should I do if I hit a kangaroo?
Pull over safely, turn on hazard lights and check your passengers, calling 000 if anyone is injured. Then contact local wildlife services about an injured animal and the rental company.
Should I swerve around a kangaroo?
No. Brake firmly in a straight line instead of swerving.
Does hire car insurance cover kangaroo damage?
It depends on the agreement and any excess or exclusions. Check the selected rental terms.
When should I avoid driving on country roads?
Dawn and dusk carry more wildlife risk; schedule longer regional legs in daylight when possible.