Collisions involving livestock and motorcycles often result in serious injuries because riders have little protection from impact. An October 6, 2025, crash in Vassalboro, Maine, illustrates how quickly encountering wandering livestock can lead to life-threatening harm.
What Happened
According to WGME News, two people were injured Monday night after their motorcycle struck a cow on Riverside Drive. Investigators said a man and woman were riding together when four cows wandered onto the roadway. The motorcycle collided with one of the animals, throwing both riders to the ground.
A passing Vassalboro firefighter witnessed the scene and called for emergency assistance. Both riders were transported to the hospital for treatment, and the woman reportedly suffered significant injuries. Authorities have not updated their conditions or details about the cows’ ownership. The investigation into the crash remains ongoing.
Can the Livestock Owner Be Held Liable?
In Maine, livestock owners are required to prevent their animals from roaming freely and causing danger to others. When cows or other domesticated animals escape and enter public roadways, the owner can be held liable if negligence, such as poor fencing or failure to secure gates, contributed to the incident.
In this case, investigators will likely review whether the cows belonged to a nearby farm, the condition of fencing or gates, and whether the animals had escaped previously. Establishing ownership and assessing how the cows entered the roadway will be key to determining responsibility for the riders’ injuries and property damage.
The Vulnerability of Motorcyclists
Motorcyclists are particularly at risk in livestock collisions. Unlike occupants of cars or trucks, riders are directly exposed to the impact and often thrown from their bikes. Even with protective gear, injuries like fractures, internal trauma, or head injuries can result from a collision with a cow, an animal weighing over 1,000 pounds. Reduced visibility at night and rural lighting conditions make these crashes more likely after dark.
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Why These Cases Are Complex
Livestock-related crashes can involve multiple parties, including the animal’s owner, local farmers, or property managers. Determining negligence requires examining the fencing, animal behavior, and the timeline of events leading up to the crash. Insurance disputes are also common, as liability may depend on whether the owner acted reasonably to contain their animals. A thorough legal review is essential because livestock laws vary by state and locality.
Injured in a Livestock-Related Accident? We Can Help
Accidents like this underscore the risks faced by motorcyclists on rural roads where livestock may wander unexpectedly. For injured riders and their families, understanding legal rights is critical to securing compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and long-term care needs.
If you or someone you love has been injured in a livestock-related accident, contact Silva Injury Law today for a free consultation.
