Open Range Laws and Livestock Accidents
California is a major agricultural state, and a large part of its agricultural sector involves the raising of livestock like beef cattle, dairy cows, sheep, goats, and other animals. Additionally, many people raise and own horses for sport and pleasure riding, as well as a few as working animals “riding the range.” Occasionally, however, one of these animals may get loose and wander onto a roadway and into the path of a motor vehicle. As unfortunate and sad as the resulting collision may be for the animal, it’s important to consider that a full-grown cow or horse may weigh several hundred pounds. Running into one can have deadly consequences for the driver and occupants of a vehicle. There are several laws and court rulings that govern establishing liability for these personal injury claims in California. Among the most important factors to consider is the relationship between open range laws and livestock accidents.