While driving in areas where animals are normally present, it’s common to end up in a car accident. Both wild and domestic animals may be outdoors and can run into the road in suburban and rural areas alike. Naturally, a driver’s first instinct is to swerve to avoid hitting the animal, but that can have devastating results, like losing control of the vehicle and suffering serious injuries. Swerving can produce a domino effect, causing the driver to strike another car or object, which can lead to even worse results, like the car rolling over or serious injury to other drivers on the road. It’s important to know your legal options if you are involved in an accident with an animal and suffer an injury.
Large Animal Accidents
Large animals are present just about everywhere and can walk out on a roadway without a moment’s notice. Deer are particularly common, especially if there is forest land in the area. If you are driving through a rural or farm area, you may also see a cow or horse suddenly venture onto the road.
Accidents that involve deer can cause a great deal of damage to your vehicle and considerable bodily injuries. Some common injuries include:
- Broken bones, cuts, scrapes, bruises
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Face injuries
- Head injuries
- Neck injuries
- Scarring and disfigurement
- Temporary or permanent paralysis
- Internal organ damage
- Spinal cord injuries
Most accidents involving deer take place during the fall, which is the breeding season for deer, and usually occur in the evening or at dusk as deer are nocturnal animals. Since deer are wild animals, there is no third-party liability when a person has an accident with one. The individual would have to go through their own car insurance policy to cover any damages, but often these policies do not cover such accidents.
Farm animals, such as pigs, horses and cows, are required to be kept in pens or fenced areas. If one of these animals wanders onto the road, the owner is legally responsible if a driver has an accident involving one of them. The owner is liable for any damages or injuries sustained.
Damages After an Accident Involving an Animal
Drivers suffer several damages after an accident involving a larger animal aside from physical injuries. The most common damages include:
- Property damage
- Medical bills
- Emotional trauma
- Lost quality of life
- Lost wages
- Lost work ability
If you are injured in a car accident involving an animal, it’s important to get in touch with an experienced personal injury attorney. You may be able to collect compensation for your injuries and damages.
