Motorists have been warned about an increasingly deadly danger on the roads. In winter, wildlife creates new hazards.

Chloe Maxwell reports.

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As temperatures drop, and the grasses are sparse, animals come out looking for food.

And that can put them on a collision course with motorists.

Renee Smith, RACQ Spokesperson: “We do warn motorists to avoid driving at dusk and dawn. It’s more likely that an animal collision will happen at these times.”

Collisions with wildlife in the past three years have resulted in tens of thousands of insurance claims.

The RACQ says the biggest spike in claims happens during July and August.

And country roads are the worst.

Regional towns including Roma, St George and Chinchilla have topped the charts for crash hotspots.

Metro drivers, particularly in bushy suburbs, still need to take care.

If you do come across an animal on the roadside take care when braking.

Renee Smith, RACQ Spokesperson: “Be aware of your surroundings, please check for traffic whether that be in front, behind, or you know, coming from the other side of the road. We don’t want to have cases of even more serious crashes.”

Taking particular notice of wildlife warning signs and always keep an eye out for animals and drive to the conditions.

Chloe Maxwell, QUT News.