Bullbars, those hunks of iron commonly seen on the front of urban four-wheel-drives, might be responsible for some horrific pedestrian injuries and deaths, but they’re really good for keeping insurance and repair costs down.

That’s the assessment of the Australian Automotive Aftermarket Association (AAAA), which concentrates on the benefits for rural motorists in a media statement spruiking bullbars.

“The use of bullbars remains a viable alternative to serous damage caused by animal collisions,” says the AAAA, and a bit of research by Sunrise Exchange News indicates it may be right. It doesn’t question why you need a bullbar in the suburbs, but never mind. 

South Australian insurer RAA says that over the past five years animal collisions made up about 20% of the incidents causing vehicle damage on regional roads. The Stuart Highway in the NT had the highest incidence, with almost 50% of vehicle damage caused by collisions with animals.

A kangaroo is up to four times more likely to be hit than any other animal, and the total crash repair bill each year is more than $10 million.

RACQ says more than 1800 animal collisions occurred in Queensland last year, with each claim averaging about $2,000. About 2% of the claims were total losses.

Of course, as any rural driver can tell you, winter is the worst season for animal collisions. And in some parts of the outback, driving a car at night is hazardous.