Crashes involving cows can occur suddenly, often resulting in injuries or worse for both motorists and animals. An October 18, 2025, collision near Phillips, Nebraska, demonstrates how dangerous it can be when herds cross highways before sunrise.
What Happened
According to KSNB Local 4, first responders were called to a two-vehicle crash on Highway 34 near Sunset Terrace Road around 4:29 a.m. Saturday. Phillips Fire & Rescue reported that two vehicles collided with a herd of cattle that had wandered onto the highway.
Investigators said one vehicle struck three cows, while the other hit one. All four animals died from the impact. Both drivers received medical attention at the scene with assistance from Aurora Ambulance and were expected to recover. The cattle’s owner was notified and arrived shortly after the crash. Emergency personnel confirmed that the animals were cleared from the roadway as authorities continued investigating.
Can the Livestock Owner Be Held Liable?
Livestock owners in Nebraska are responsible for keeping their animals under control. When cattle escape and cause an accident, the owner may be held accountable if carelessness, such as failure to maintain proper fence or monitoring, contributed to the animals’ presence on the road.
In this case, investigators will likely examine how the cattle accessed Highway 34, whether fencing or gates were secured correctly, and if previous escapes had been reported. Determining whether the animals were being herded, grazing freely, or startled into the roadway will also play a key role in identifying liability.
The Dangers of Highway Livestock Collisions
Highway collisions involving livestock are particularly hazardous because of the size and weight of cattle. A full-grown cow can weigh more than 1,200 pounds, enough to cause devastating impact damage to even modern vehicles. When these crashes occur in the dark, drivers often have little time to brake or maneuver, leading to severe injuries and fatalities for both motorists and animals.
Rural highways like Highway 34 often lack fencing or lighting along pastureland, increasing the risk of wandering livestock. These accidents cause economic loss for farmers and endanger public safety for all who travel through agricultural areas.
Why These Cases Require Careful Investigation
Livestock accidents frequently involve multiple parties: the animal’s owner, vehicle operators, insurers, and sometimes local municipalities responsible for roadway maintenance. Establishing liability requires a detailed review of fencing conditions, witness statements, and crash data. Because livestock laws vary across states, obtaining legal guidance is often necessary to determine whether an owner can be held accountable.
Talk to an Experienced Attorney
Collisions involving livestock can leave lasting physical, emotional, and financial consequences. Understanding your legal options is the first step toward recovery for those injured or dealing with property loss after such crashes.
If you or someone you love has been involved in a livestock-related accident, contact Silva Injury Law today for a free consultation.
