Two Vehicles Collide With Escaped Horses on Elkhorn Boulevard
Horses that had escaped onto a roadway caused an injury accident in Sacramento on March 16. The accident occurred when an Acura and an Infiniti struck several of the horses, killing two at westbound Elkhorn Boulevard and near Dry Creek Road around 5:08 a.m. The California Highway Patrol (CHP) reported that there were multiple horses loose on the roadway, and they feared another traffic collision because of it.
One Person Taken to Hospital After Injury Accident
The owner of the animals arrived at the scene, and by 7:26 a.m., had them under control. One injury was reported in the accident, and that patient was taken to a hospital for treatment. The accident is being investigated to determine how it occurred.
Is There Liability for Accidents That Involve Livestock?
California certainly has its share of beef cattle, horses and other livestock, and most of the time, it doesn’t cause a problem. However, under the California Food and Agriculture Code, the owner of livestock and animals that get loose and wander onto the highway or other places where an injury accident occurs may be held liable. To prove this type of claim, the lawyer has to show that negligence was the cause of the collision, such as in insecure gates, cattle guards, fencing, barns, or other areas.
Insurance Coverage for an Injury Accident Caused by Horses
The average horse weighs anywhere from 900 to almost 2,000 pounds, so when a vehicle collides with one, it can cause extensive damage to the car and severe injuries to those inside. Some people have automatic insurance coverage for their horses under their homeowner’s policy. Another option chosen by some is Farm Owners insurance, which has no limits on the number of horses owned. Private Horse Owners Liability insurance is also available, which covers serious bodily injury and property damage whether the accident occurs on or off the premises.
Open Range Laws
In open-range situations, the owner of the animals does not have to fence them in. However, he/she still has the responsibility to control them, so they do not cause a traffic accident or injuries to others.
Types of Injuries in a Collision With an Animal
The types of trauma in an injury accident with an animal are similar to those in any other collision. They can include:
- Traumatic brain injuries: Injuries from minor concussions to serious trauma can occur, which can result in cognitive changes and long hospitalization in more serious cases.
- Broken bones: Bone fractures can occur anywhere in the body, including to the arms and legs. Simple breaks can heal within two months. More serious trauma may require surgical repair, and recovery can be extended for a much longer period.
- Abdominal trauma: Abdominal trauma can occur by striking the steering wheel or dash as well as the interior of the vehicle. They may include internal bleeding or organ damage.
- Chest injuries: Injuries to the chest may include heavy bruising, broken ribs and other damage.
- Spinal cord damage: Damage to the spinal cord can cause permanent or temporary paralysis.
Obtaining Advice After a Traffic Accident With a Horse
Determining liability in a traffic accident that involves a horse or other animal can be complex. This is why it is a good idea to consult with an attorney familiar with these types of claims. The lawyer can investigate the accident to gather the evidence needed to prove fault, calculate the damages and handle the negotiations for the client with the insurance company.
Sacramento Personal Injury Lawyer
I’m Ed Smith, and I’m a Sacramento personal injury lawyer. If you were injured due to the negligence of another individual or entity, you might want to find out whether you can file a compensation claim. Get in touch with us at (916) 921-6400 for our free and friendly advice. We can also be reached at (800) 404-5400 or by sending us a message online.
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Photo attribution: Image by Руслан Сикунов from Pixabay
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