Even in quiet rural towns, livestock wandering onto roadways can lead to devastating crashes. A recent collision in central Maine shows how dangerous these encounters can be—especially for motorcyclists who have little protection in an impact with a large animal.
What Happened
According to 92 Moose, a motorcyclist was seriously injured in Vassalboro after striking a cow in the roadway. The crash occurred along Riverside Drive, where the rider collided with a cow that had escaped from nearby property. Emergency crews arrived quickly, closing the road while they provided medical care to the injured rider and worked to remove the animal from the roadway. Authorities confirmed that the rider was transported to a local hospital with serious injuries. The cow did not survive the collision. Officials have not yet said how the animal escaped or whether the livestock owner may face penalties.
Can the Livestock Owner Be Held Liable?
In Maine, livestock owners are responsible for keeping their animals properly confined and away from public roads. If a cow or other livestock escapes due to faulty fencing, open gates, or negligence, the owner may be held liable for damages resulting from an accident. However, as with many livestock cases, liability also depends on the specific facts of the crash. If the animal escaped because of unforeseen circumstances—such as vandalism or a fallen tree that broke a fence—the owner might not be considered negligent. Investigators will review fencing conditions, property boundaries, and local ordinances to determine whether the livestock owner met their legal duties.
The Dangers of Livestock Collisions for Motorcyclists
Crashes involving livestock are especially dangerous for motorcycle riders. Unlike car drivers, motorcyclists have no protective frame, seat belts, or airbags to shield them from impact. A cow can weigh over a thousand pounds, and hitting such an animal at any speed can eject a rider, cause the motorcycle to flip, and result in severe or life-threatening injuries. Common injuries in livestock collisions include broken bones, spinal cord trauma, and head injuries. Recovery is often long and costly, with significant medical bills and time away from work.
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Insurance Challenges After a Livestock Crash
Insurance disputes are common in crashes involving animals. The motorcyclist’s insurance may cover some medical expenses, but if the livestock owner’s negligence caused the accident, their farm or homeowner’s insurance may also be responsible. Unfortunately, insurers often dispute fault, arguing over who should pay. This can delay financial recovery for victims who are already facing steep medical costs and rehabilitation expenses. Having an attorney investigate and negotiate with insurers can be critical in securing fair compensation.
Why These Cases Are Complex
Livestock-related crashes are more complicated than typical vehicle accidents. Liability may involve multiple parties—the motorcyclist, the livestock owner, and sometimes local municipalities responsible for fencing along public rights-of-way. Determining fault requires reviewing police reports, fencing conditions, and any witness accounts. Additionally, Maine’s rural roadways often lack adequate lighting, signage, or fencing, all of which can influence how liability is assigned. An experienced attorney can help identify all potential sources of recovery and ensure that victims do not bear the financial burden alone.
Talk to an Experienced Attorney
Accidents like this highlight the devastating consequences when animals and vehicles collide. For families facing medical bills, lost income, or the loss of a loved one, understanding legal rights is essential.
If you or someone you love has been injured in a livestock-related accident, contact Silva Injury Law today for a free consultation.
