Goats Wandered Onto the Highway
Goats escaped their fenced area and caused havoc on a section of road in the western area of Roseville on October 14. The goats moved onto the road at Hayden Parkway and Corin Drive at about 3:00 p.m. It was reported that the goats were able to jump off a ledge and run into the road as they made their way towards a grassy area, resulting in disrupted traffic flow. Sarah Carter, who videotaped the incident, said that the goats ran out in front of the vehicle she shared with her daughter.
Goats Are Back in Roseville
After a two year hiatus, goats have returned as the newest city employees, according to an online statement by the City of Roseville. After input from the community and voter approval, their return is hailed as an environmentally friendly way to deal with open grassy areas in the city. A goat’s dexterity is also a plus since they are able to reach areas that are difficult for a lawnmower. Funding is available from the Lighting & Landscapes Districts, the General Fund, or the Community Facilities Districts.
Goats Are Amazing Eaters
Goats are renowned for nibbling unwanted grass, and 10 goats can clear an acre. Not only do they do that, but their hooves are able to aerate and churn the soil. This means that nutrients will be able to enrich the soil. It also lets water reach the roots. Goats are voracious eaters of weeds, brush, and leaves. Goats can survive without grain and hay. However, if the soil is depleted of nutrients, it is important to supplement their diet.
Goat Tracker
The City of Roseville provides a goat tracker for anyone who is interested. You can find the goats by using the tracker on your mobile device or computer. Many people in the area visit the goats, and the tracker makes it easier. It is best not to feed them since their “job” gives them all the food they need, and they might knock down the fence as they move toward the food. Visitors can take pictures of them though. The fence is electric to help confine them to an area, and a herder with a trained dog is present. You can use the hashtag #rosevillegoats to share the photos.
What Happens When Livestock Run on the Highway
There is a problem when livestock runs away from an enclosed or open area and causes personal and property damage. In California, it is the owner’s responsibility to confine the animals. Under state law, the livestock is not permitted on a highway if it has property on both sides that are separated by a lawn, buildings, sidewalks, hedges, walls, or curbs. Otherwise, herding animals across a roadway is permitted as long as a sufficient number of herders and dogs are in attendance. However, there are restrictions. In many ways, the laws are confusing. If you have been in an accident with livestock in California, it is essential that you retain an attorney with experience in handling such cases.
Who Is Responsible for an Accident With Livestock?
Accidents with livestock occur frequently in rural areas. They involve run-off-road accidents, rollovers as the motor vehicle operator tries to avoid the animal, or collisions with another vehicle. The animals may escape their enclosure because the fence confining the animal is not well maintained, allowing the animal to leave.
In the event that an animal escapes from confinement and the owner becomes aware of it and does not remove the animal from the road in a proper amount of time, they could be held responsible for damages. Even if the fence has been maintained but is not capable of holding the animal or the animal is known to escape the enclosure, the owner may be responsible. If the city or state uses the animals for a specific purpose, they may also be liable for damages. Each case is different, and it is important to evaluate the situation. In many areas in California, open range laws are in effect.
What an Experienced Livestock Accident Attorney Can Do
Our lawyers and investigators are experienced in livestock laws. We confer with fencing experts and livestock behavioral specialists when investigating the case. Our lawyers will be sent to the scene to determine why the accident happened, evaluate fences for maintenance and capacity to hold the animals. Once the investigation is completed, all data is released to our injury attorneys, who will use it to build a strong case.
Roseville Personal Injury Lawyer
I’m Ed Smith, a Roseville personal injury lawyer. If you’ve been in a car accident with livestock, you know the damage that can result. I can help you. Call me at (916) 921-6400 or at (800) 404-5400 for free and friendly advice. You can also reach me online.
I have been obtaining the compensation residents of Roseville deserve in all types of car accidents, traumatic injuries, and wrongful deaths.
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Learn more about my practice on the following pages:
Photo Attribution: https://pixabay.com/photos/goat-lamb-little-grass-livestock-1596880/
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