Rear-end collisions most common cause of car crashes in WA – RAC

THE RAC has revealed rear-end collisions were the most common cause of crashes in WA last year – while collisions between cars and animals increased by nearly 25 per cent.

The insurance company has released a list of the most common causes of crashes in 2017, based on more than 50,000 claims.

Rear-end collisions easily claimed the top spot with 13,321 claims, well clear of instances where a vehicle was hit while parked – of which there were 11,803 claims.

The sixth most common claim involved animal collisions with 2576, an average of seven per day, up from 2078 in 2016.

Single vehicle collisions, vehicles being reversed into and failure to give way rounded out the top five.

RAC claims manager Glen Walker said regional roads were particularly prone to animal collisions, especially during the darker hours of the day.

“Our advice is to stay vigilant, reduce your speed when driving at dawn or dusk and keep a look out for animal warning signs in the area,” he said.

“If possible, avoid driving at night in regional areas. If you do need to drive at night, reduce your speed, make sure you use your high-beams and pay attention to reflecting eyes in the distance.

“If you notice any road kill, slow down and be extra cautious as this can be a sign of other wildlife in the area.”

However, Mr Walker also said drivers in the suburbs needed to be wary of animals on the roads.

“It’s also important, when driving in the suburbs, to be aware of cats and dogs wandering on roads, driveways and under cars,” he said.

“How you react when you see an animal on the road is extremely important. If you do spot an animal near the road, slow down but don’t swerve to avoid it as this can endanger you and your passengers.”

Motorists who experience a collision and are concerned about injuries to the animal should call the Wildcare Helpline on 9474 9055.

Most common causes of crashes in 2017 based on RAC claims:

1. Rear end collisions – 13,321 claims

2. Hit while parked – 11,803 claims

3. Single vehicle collisions – 11,333 claims

4. Reversed into – 5763 claims

5. Failure to give way – 5059 claims

6. Collision with an animal – 2576 claims