Horse collisions can be dangerous. Horses are large, heavy, and tall animals. Unlike smaller livestock, a horse may crash through the windshield or strike the roofline on impact, putting drivers and passengers at serious risk of injuries.
These accidents often happen in the dark or on rural roads with limited visibility, leaving little time to react.
On January 11, 2026, three vehicles were damaged, one driver was transported to the hospital, and one horse was killed in a multi-vehicle crash caused by loose horses on State Highway 188.
How Did the Crash Occur?
According to KIIITV 3News, Troopers were notified of a crash around 7:11 p.m. on Sunday. Two horses had escaped and were on the roadway when a 2010 Nissan Rogue, traveling east toward Sinton, struck one of the horses. The impact killed the horse and caused the Rogue driver to leave the roadway. The 60-year-old woman driving the Rogue was taken to a local hospital for treatment. No serious injuries were reported.
A 2023 Chevrolet Traverse, traveling behind the Rogue, then ran over the dead horse. The undercarriage of the Traverse was damaged.
Troopers also reported that a second loose horse was later struck by a 2016 Lincoln Navigator, which caused minor damage to the vehicle. The two Navigator occupants were not injured. The second horse was secured behind a fence.
Can the Owner of the Horse Be Held Responsible?
In Texas, a horse owner may be held responsible for injuries and property damage caused by loose livestock. However, liability is not automatic just because the animals were in the roadway.
Texas law generally prohibits an owner from knowingly permitting livestock (including horses) to roam at large, unattended on the right-of-way of a U.S. or state highway.
These cases often come down to how the horses escaped and whether the owner failed to take reasonable steps to prevent it, such as maintaining fencing, securing gates, or responding quickly if the horses were known to be out.
If investigators determine that the owner knowingly allowed the horses to roam or ignored a foreseeable risk that they could escape onto the road, the owner could face civil liability for crash-related losses, including vehicle damage and medical costs. Based on this, the injured driver or drivers with damaged vehicles may be able to pursue personal injury claims.
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Dangers of Loose Horses on Rural Highways
Loose horses on roadways create an immediate danger for drivers, especially on rural highways that are windy and have limited visibility. A horse’s size and weight can cause devastating damage on impact, and even when injuries are not life-threatening, crashes can still total vehicles, trigger rollovers, or force drivers off the road.
This incident shows how quickly one animal in the roadway can lead to a chain reaction. After the first collision killed the horse, a second vehicle struck the horse in the roadway, and another driver later hit a second loose horse.
Accidents Involving Horses or Livestock Can Be Complicated
Horse and livestock crash cases can become complicated because they often involve multiple collisions, multiple drivers, and multiple insurance policies. Investigators may need to determine whether the first crash created a hazard that led to the second impact, and whether drivers had enough time or distance to react.
These cases also raise practical questions, such as when the horses escaped, who was responsible for containing them, whether prior escape issues existed, and what steps were taken to secure the animals after the first collision.
Work with an Experienced Livestock Accident Attorney
Even when injuries are described as “not serious,” livestock collisions can leave victims with costly medical bills, vehicle repairs, and ongoing stress from a frightening crash. Silva Injury Law helps clients handle livestock-related accident claims by investigating what happened, identifying responsible parties, and pursuing compensation through appropriate insurance coverage.
If you were injured or your vehicle was damaged in a crash involving loose horses or livestock, Silva Injury Law can help you understand your legal options and fight for the recovery you deserve. Contact us today for a free consultation.
Well Wishes
I wish the injured driver a smooth recovery and hope she makes a speedy recovery.
