The Fleurieu has four of the worst hotspots for car crashes with kangaroos, according to the RAA.

Car crashes with kangaroos continue to skyrocket across the state – with RAA insurance receiving more than 2,100 claims for kangaroo collisions in the past year. 

That’s a 44 per cent jump on the same period two years ago – likely due to the state’s lack of rainfall bringing kangaroos towards the road in search of food. 

RAA has also analysed the last three years of insurance claim data to reveal which suburbs are worst for kangaroo crashes, with the biggest hotspots being busy regional towns. 

Mount Gambier in the state’s South East recorded 64 kangaroo collision claims at RAA in recent years, followed by Whyalla (57), Port Augusta (53) and Mount Compass (47). 

McLaren Vale (45), Myponga (43) and Victor Harbor (40) also featured in the top ten.

While the RAA insurance data shows 77 per cent of kangaroo collisions occur in regional areas, a significant number are also recorded in the outer metropolitan areas – highlighting the need for all drivers to be vigilant.  

RAA Senior Manager Safety & Infrastructure Charles Mountain urges drivers to be aware of the heightened risk of kangaroo crashes. 

“Kangaroos in particular are unpredictable creatures that can seemingly come out of nowhere and pose a significant safety risk. 

“They can also do a lot of damage to your vehicle – from minor damage up to a complete write-off. 

“If you’re driving in regional areas especially, make sure you’re alert to the possibility of animals near the road and drive to the conditions. 

“If you do happen to encounter one on the road, brake safely and sound your horn if it’s safe to do so. 

“But do not swerve as that could cause a more serious crash and put yourself and other road users at even greater risk.”