We evaluated the transferability of variables previously found to have a significant effect on European polecat Mustela putorius road‐kills at a local scale (i.e. 50m around location points) when we extrapolate them to a large scale [Universal Transverse Mercator (UTM) 100km2] in a neighbouring area. Our findings highlight the possibility of partially explaining the abundance and road-kill patterns at a large scale based on significant variables from local-scale models. Mitigation measures to reduce polecat fatalities should combine actions at different scales. Routes that cross carnivore hotspots, including those of polecats, and areas with important populations of rabbits, should be avoided during road planning. When these routes are unavoidable, local-scale mitigation measures must be implemented.