In 2014, 141 claims were made as a result of collisions with animals on Dubbo roads, 19 more than the list’s second-placed Mudgee. 

In 2013, there were 206 claims from animal collisions on Dubbo roads, while in 2012, there were 176, taking the total for the past three calendar years to 523, which is 139 more than Mudgee, which is again second on the list. 

NRMA Insurance is urging drivers to take care on the road, with its latest data showing more than 10,200 animals including kangaroos, dogs, wombats, cattle and cats were injured or killed on NSW roads last year.

The report also revealed 80 per cent of animal collisions on NSW roads involve kangaroos, with the number of animal-related crashes peaking during winter in July and August. 

It is estimated by the Office of Environment and Heritage that kangaroo numbers in the Coonabarabran zone, in which Dubbo falls, have increased year on year for the last eight years. 

NRMA Insurance Head of Research Robert McDonald said winter is the season most drivers and animals are at risk, with kangaroo collisions occurring frequently.

“Kangaroos are most active around sunrise and sunset when they are foraging and this is when they are most likely to venture onto roads, so we encourage drivers to slow down during twilight hours,” he said.

“How you react when you see a kangaroo on the road can potentially save lives, so it’s important to stay alert so you have the best chance of reducing both human and animal casualties.”

In the Coonabarabran zone, which is 61,000 square kilometres, it is estimated there were 590,194 red kangaroos and 2,417,012 grey kangaroos in this area in 2014. 

The number of both red and grey kangaroos have easily more than doubled in the Coonabarabran zone since 2010.

With regards to avoiding animal collisions, the NRMA Insurance advise you try and brake if you see an animal on or near the road, but not swerve to avoid a collision, and you should always drive slower inside sign posted wildlife areas. 

If you hit an animal and safety permits, you should try to help by moving it to the side of the road to prevent further crashes, you should not force it to eat or drink, and you should contact a local veterinarian or a wildlife rescue centre like WIRES. 

Although most animal collisions occur in rural areas, city drivers should also stay alert in suburban areas.

“If you’re driving on local streets dogs and cats can often wander onto roads, into driveways or under parked cars,” Mr McDonald said.

“Make sure you are aware of your surroundings, check your mirrors frequently and scan the area around where your car is parked before you head off on your journey.”

NSW hotspots for number of animal collisions: