Even on quiet rural roads in Michigan, livestock wandering onto roadways can lead to serious crashes. A recent crash in Cass County highlights how dangerous it is when a cow ends up in a driver’s path—especially in low-visibility or early morning hours.
What Happened?
According to MLive, on September 26th, a 67-year-old man from Dowagiac was injured after his car struck a cow in the roadway just after 3:30 a.m. on Calvin Center Road in Mason Township, Cass County. Reports say the driver could not exit his vehicle on his own; deputies helped him out, and he was transported by ambulance to Elkhart General Hospital in Indiana for treatment. The crash remains under investigation, and authorities have not publicly disclosed how the cow came to be on the road.
Can the Livestock Owner Be Held Liable?
In Michigan, the Animals Running at Large Act (Act 328 of 1976) prohibits animals from “running at large” and requires owners to prevent that from happening. Under MCL § 433.12, an owner may be guilty of a misdemeanor if an animal is permitted to run at large.
Additionally, MCL § 433.13 allows anyone who suffers damage from an animal running at large to demand reasonable compensation from the owner. While this statute often applies to property damage, victims of livestock-related crashes may also pursue personal injury claims under certain circumstances.
However, liability is not automatic. Investigators would need to determine whether the livestock owner maintained proper fencing, routinely inspected it, and took reasonable steps to confine the animal. If the cow escaped because of unforeseeable causes—such as vandalism or storm damage—the owner may not be found negligent.
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The Dangers of Livestock Collisions for Motorists
Crashes involving livestock can be devastating, even at moderate speeds. A cow can weigh between 1,000 and 1,500 pounds, and striking such a large animal can cause catastrophic vehicle damage, airbag deployment, or total loss of control.
Common injuries in livestock collisions include broken bones, spinal trauma, internal bleeding, and head injuries. Many victims face lengthy recoveries, high medical costs, and lost income while they heal.
Insurance Challenges After a Livestock Crash
Insurance claims after livestock-related accidents can quickly become complicated. In Michigan, a driver’s no-fault insurance will typically cover immediate medical care and lost wages, regardless of fault. However, when injuries are severe or expenses exceed policy limits, victims may pursue additional compensation from the livestock owner.
These claims often involve disputes between insurers about who bears financial responsibility. A lawyer familiar with both no-fault and property liability law can help identify coverage sources and negotiate for fair compensation.
Why These Cases Are Complex
Livestock-vehicle accidents often require detailed investigation. Police and attorneys must review fencing conditions, ownership records, property maintenance history, and whether the animal escaped through negligence or unforeseen events.
Multiple parties may share liability—the animal’s owner, a property lessee, or even local authorities responsible for roadside fencing. Rural factors like limited lighting, winding roads, and minimal signage can also influence how investigators determine fault. Establishing causation and negligence often depends on expert analysis, photographs, and witness statements.
Talk to an Experienced Attorney
Collisions like this show how quickly a routine drive can turn dangerous when livestock are not properly contained. For injured drivers, medical expenses and recovery time can be overwhelming.
If you or someone you love has been injured in a livestock-related crash, contact Silva Injury Law today for a free consultation.
