Increase in animals on and near the road due to the cold season – LTA

Drivers are being urged to remain cautious at all times as there has been an increase in the number of animals on and near the road.

The Land Transport Authority says as the cold season approaches, drivers will notice more animals moving to roads and highways for warmth which pose a major hazard.

Acting LTA CEO Irimaia Rokosawa says drivers are already reporting an increase in the number of horses and cattle on roadsides, especially along the Coral Coast and Sigatoka areas.

Rokosawa says there are also more reports of near-misses coming in and he is urging drivers and passengers to be vigilant at all times.

He says when a driver swerves or stops to avoid hitting an animal, this could trigger a host of other situations such as a collision with an oncoming vehicle.

Rokosawa is also urging owners to secure their animals as this could mean the difference between life and death for a family.