Livestock collisions are dangerous for the drivers and animals involved. These types of crashes are even more hazardous on rural, dark South Carolina roads. On the night of Saturday, January 10, 2026, a couple and their son driving down Highway 22 crashed into cattle that were loose on the road. The collision left the couple and their son with minor injuries, and their car totaled. It also resulted in the death of eight cattle.
How Did the Crash Occur?
According to a Fox8 News article, police reported a crash near Enoch Road on Highway 22 just after 10:30 p.m. on Saturday. Marion couple Heather and Jason Shulze were driving West on Highway 22 when they suddenly noticed a herd of cows running into the road. Heather stated that by the time they saw the cattle, it was too late.
Heather reported that “The cows were all black, and it’s pitch black out, and the road’s black.” It was difficult to see the black cows in those circumstances. Jason hit the brakes, but hit seven of the eight cows.
The impact completely totaled the family’s recently purchased Grand Cherokee. The family walked away from the incident with minor scratches and burns from the airbag, as well as residual soreness. The family said the incident was like a “bad dream” and that they were in disbelief. They also mentioned how the vision and sound of the incident continues to keep them up at night and haunt them. Heather and Jason also fear for how their 14-year-old son will be impacted since it was his first experience with a car accident.
Heather suggested that the incident could have been avoided. She noted that their accident was at night, around 9 p.m., but that others had posted videos earlier in the day of cattle walking down the side of the road. She stated that there were plenty of hours during which a public announcement cautioning drivers could have been made. Heather also noted that having lights on the highway could have helped prevent the damage.
On Monday morning, police said the cows were part of a herd of 50 that were new to the farm they came from. Police rounded up all but eight Saturday night. In the early morning hours on Monday, one of the eight still loose had been found and captured.
Police also confirmed that no further accidents or injuries related to the seven loose cows had occurred. Signage in the area warns drivers of the cows and asks drivers to proceed with caution.
Can the Cattle Owner Be Held Liable?
In South Carolina, a cattle owner may be held liable if the crash occurred due to their negligence. Negligence in this situation could include failing to properly fence in the animals or ignoring prior reports that the cows were loose.
If the owner had notice that the cattle were near the road earlier in the day and didn’t act quickly to contain them, that can strengthen a claim for vehicle damage and injuries.
An investigation into the incident will likely look at how the cattle escaped, including:
- The condition of nearby fencing and gates;
- Whether there were prior complaints or sightings reported; and
- How quickly the owner responded once the animals were discovered.
Police and insurance investigators may also document lighting and visibility conditions, take photos of the scene, and gather statements from witnesses to help determine fault.
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The Risks of Loose Cattle on Rural Roads
Livestock pose a serious hazard on rural highways, especially when drivers are traveling at higher speeds with limited time to react. A single cow can weigh more than half a ton, and when several animals move into the roadway together, it can be nearly impossible for a driver to brake or steer away safely without losing control.
These crashes are even more dangerous at night or in low-visibility conditions, when dark-colored animals can blend into unlit pavement and surrounding fields. Collisions with cattle often result in significant vehicle damage, injuries to drivers and passengers, and costly losses for the livestock owner.
Livestock Cases Can Be Complex
Livestock collisions can be legally complex because liability often depends on why the animals were loose in the first place. Investigators may need to determine whether fencing or gates were properly maintained, whether the owner had prior notice that the animals were near the roadway, and whether someone else (like a third party, property owner, or driver) contributed to the escape. These cases can also involve overlapping insurance issues, disputed timelines, and competing arguments about visibility and whether the crash was avoidable.
Talk to a Skilled Livestock Accident Attorney
Loose cattle accidents can cause serious physical, emotional, and property damage. If you’ve totaled a car or been injured in a cattle collision, understanding how South Carolina laws apply is essential.
Silva Injury Law has a practice area dedicated to helping clients injured in livestock accidents. Our team is familiar with various livestock laws across the country and can help you fight for the compensation you deserve.
Contact Silva Injury Law today for a free consultation.
