Loose livestock on major highways, particularly those traveled at high speeds, pose a significant risk, as cow-vehicle collisions can rapidly turn into dangerous, multi-vehicle incidents. A series of crashes on November 23, 2025, on U.S. 101 near Leggett highlights the risks posed when cattle enter active roadways in rural California.
What Happened on U.S. 101
According to Kym Kemp News, California Highway Patrol officers responded to multiple reports beginning around 3:51 a.m. of vehicles striking cows on the southbound lanes of U.S. 101 near mile marker 84, just south of Leggett.
Within minutes, additional calls came in indicating that several vehicles had collided with more cattle in the roadway. By 4:49 a.m., the CHP reported that four vehicles had struck cows, resulting in four injuries to patients. Three individuals were described as “walking wounded,” while one sustained minor injuries. All declined hospital transport.
The crashes caused significant vehicle damage. A Toyota pickup and a Volkswagen Atlas were reported blocking traffic, and another vehicle was found overturned. A semi-truck later became involved after striking a cow, killing the animal. The semi driver was contacted at a nearby overcrossing, and multiple tow companies responded to clear damaged vehicles.
Because several cattle were struck, CHP requested a brand inspector to help determine ownership. Caltrans crews removed animals from the roadway, and one cow was transported for inspection while another was monitored at the scene. Cleanup and investigation continued for several hours before the roadway was fully cleared.
Can the Livestock Owner Be Held Liable?
Under California law, livestock owners may be held liable when their animals stray onto public highways in areas that are not designated as open range. In Mendocino County, determining liability often depends on whether the roadway falls within a fenced district or open-range zone.
Investigators will likely examine how the cattle accessed the highway, whether fencing was damaged or missing, and whether reasonable measures were taken to prevent escape. The involvement of a brand inspector suggests that ownership and containment will be central issues in determining responsibility.
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Why Highway Livestock Collisions Are Especially Dangerous
High-speed highways, such as U.S. 101, leave drivers little time to react when animals suddenly appear in the road. Cows can weigh over 1,000 pounds, and collisions often result in vehicles being disabled, overturned, or pushed into secondary crashes. When multiple vehicles encounter livestock in succession, the risk of chain-reaction crashes increases dramatically.
Low-light conditions during early morning hours further compound the danger, making dark-colored animals difficult to see until the moment of impact.
Why These Cases Are Complex
Incidents involving multiple vehicles and livestock often require coordination among law enforcement, animal control, brand inspectors, Caltrans, and insurers. Determining liability may involve mapping open-range boundaries, reviewing fencing responsibilities, and identifying the ownership of cattle. With several drivers and insurers involved, resolving claims can become legally and procedurally complex.
Talk to an Experienced Attorney
Crashes involving loose livestock can result in injuries, extensive property damage, and unanswered questions about responsibility. Understanding how California’s livestock and roadway laws apply is critical after such incidents.
If you or someone you love has been injured in a livestock-related accident, contact Silva Injury Law today for a free consultation.
