Collisions involving large animals can have devastating consequences, particularly on rural highways with limited visibility and short reaction time. A September 29, 2025, crash near Joliet, Montana, claimed the lives of two drivers after a vehicle struck a horse in the roadway and then collided with another car.
What Happened
According to KULR 8 News, the crash occurred around 7:25 p.m. Monday evening on U.S. Route 212. The Montana Highway Patrol reported that the driver of a southbound Chevrolet Suburban struck a horse that was standing in the roadway, causing the SUV to cross into the northbound lane. The Suburban then collided head-on with an oncoming Chevrolet Malibu.
The Suburban rolled and caught fire, while the Malibu veered off the road to the right. Both drivers were pronounced dead at the scene. Authorities believe alcohol may have been a contributing factor, though the official cause of the crash remains under investigation.
Can the Horse’s Owner Be Held Liable?
Under Montana law, livestock owners are prohibited from “willfully or negligently” allowing animals to roam at large in areas where livestock must be fenced in. When an animal escapes due to poor fencing or owner oversight, and a collision occurs, the owner may be held responsible for resulting damages or fatalities.
In this case, investigators will work to determine the horse’s ownership, the condition of nearby enclosures, and whether any negligence contributed to the animal’s presence on the roadway. If alcohol indeed played a role, authorities will also examine whether impaired driving contributed to the chain of events that led to the collision.
Why Collisions Involving Horses Are So Dangerous
Horses pose a unique danger to motorists due to their size and height. Weighing between 900 and 1,200 pounds, a horse’s body often strikes a vehicle’s windshield and upper cabin area, leading to severe or fatal injuries. On highways like U.S. 212, where vehicles travel at high speeds and lighting can be limited after dusk, avoiding an animal in the roadway becomes extremely difficult.
Even when drivers avoid direct impact, swerving or braking suddenly can lead to secondary collisions, rollovers, or vehicle fires, factors seen in this tragic crash.
Why These Cases Are Complex
Horse accidents often require multiple levels of investigation, including law enforcement, animal control, and insurance representatives. Determining liability can depend on whether the animal was properly contained, the driver’s condition, and local fencing regulations. Because both human and animal factors may be involved, these cases demand careful legal review to ensure families receive answers and accountability.
Talk to an Experienced Attorney
Tragic incidents like this one near Joliet highlight the devastating impact livestock collisions can have on families and communities. Understanding the legal issues surrounding ownership, negligence, and insurance coverage is essential after such losses.
If you or someone you love has been involved in a livestock-related accident, contact Silva Injury Law today for a free consultation.
