ABOUT 20% of accidents on rural roads involve collisions with an animal says a wildlife rescue group.

Clarence Valley WIRES macropod co-ordinator Sandy Webb said many of these animals were kangaroos and wallabies.

Ms Webb said motorists could take precautions that would minimise the number of collisions with animals.

• Slow down, that will give yourself and the animals the best chance;
• Stay alert, particularly when driving at dawn or dusk, which are peak times for wildlife to be on the move;
• Take it easy around corners;
• Be aware of cars ahead of you, if they have slowed or stopped the driver may be waiting for an animal to cross;
• Be wary when you see one animal. The often travel in groups so there may be more around.

"Smaller native animals like possums and echidnas will need more time to get across, young animals may not even realise your vehicle is a threat, so please allow them time and be patient," Ms Webb said.

Ms Webb said if you hit an animal and couldn't stop, the most important thing to do was let someone know by calling Clarence Valley WIRES branch on 6643 4055.

She recommended keeping your local WIRES hotline number 6643 4055 in your phone or in your car for emergencies.