Research has shown that collisions with animals peak in the winter months, particularly around July.

By changing driving habits and putting a little more thought into trips, motorists can reduce the likelihood of a collision and lessen the severity if one occurs. 

Panorama Road Safety's Matthew Irvine said it often comes down to planning.

"The best approach is to plan your trip," he said.

"If you are going to drive on roads with animals, plan your trip, see if you can leave a bit earlier or take a different route." 

Another tip Mr Irvine had was to slow down in areas where there is animal activity, saying that taking just 10 kilometres off your speed can significantly improve an outcome. 

He acknowledges that sometimes a collision is unavoidable, but said people can lessen the severity. 

"If an animal jumps out in front of you, brake as fast as you can, slow down as much as you can, but if a collision is inevitable it is better to hit the animal than to swerve to avoid it," he said. 

"Swerving is more likely to result in another collision." 

WIRES Central West publicity officer Christie Jarrett said the organisation does see a spike in animal collisions over winter.

“We call it a perfect storm for animal collisions because it has been all dry and miserable for animals and there is no feed in the paddocks, so they come onto the roads,” she said. 

If an animal is hit, motorists should pull over safely to confirm if the animal is dead or alive and to check if there is a baby.

If the animal is still alive or has a baby, call WIRES on 1300 094 737 for assistance.

If the animal has died, people should try to move it to the side of the road.

“Other animals come along and feed on the carcass, which isn’t particularly lovely, but they will come onto the road and that could lead to another collision,” Ms Jarrett said.