When asked to name dangerous animals, few people would think to place cattle, horses, hogs, goats, and other livestock anywhere near the top of their list.
While animals grazing in a pasture might create a picturesque view, they can also present a serious hazard if they are not properly contained, and their owners have a legal responsibility to protect the public. If you or someone you love has suffered an injury as a result of coming into contact with livestock, you have the right to seek compensation. At the Law Offices of Bryan Musgrave, we have experience with livestock personal injury cases, and we’re ready to assist you.
Livestock Personal Injury Claims
Under Missouri law, owners of livestock are required to properly contain the animals. Anyone passing by the property, either on foot or in a vehicle, should not have to come into contact with these animals.
Dangers Presented by Livestock
Livestock that have escaped the control of their owners can cause harm both directly and indirectly. While these animals are often considered domesticated and docile, they can become frightened, territorial, or aggressive under certain circumstances. When a large, powerful animal becomes agitated because it feels threatened, it is dangerous to anyone in its vicinity. Injuries from direct encounters with large animals are often the result of being bitten, kicked, stepped on, or knocked down. Even passersby traveling in motor vehicles can be hurt if the animals enter the roadway and cause an automobile accident.
Injuries Caused by Livestock
Escaped livestock can cause serious harm to the people who have the misfortune to cross their path. Common injuries include the following:
- Spinal injuries
- Brain injuries
- Broken bones
- Lacerations and contusions
- Bites and puncture wounds
Compensation for Injuries Caused by Livestock
Being injured by a large animal can create both physical and financial difficulties. This is especially true if your injury is life altering or requires extensive medical treatment or a lengthy recovery period. When pursuing a claim for compensation, your medical expenses are just one factor to consider. You may also wish to seek reparation for pain and suffering, lost wages, any disability or disfigurement resulting from your injury, the impact on your quality of life, and punitive damages. An experienced livestock personal injury lawyer can review your situation, explain the issues that impact any award of compensation, and provide you with information about your legal options.
What Should You Do If You Have Suffered a Livestock Personal Injury?
When an encounter with livestock that was not properly contained results in injury, the owner of the animal is liable. If you have been harmed by another person’s livestock, you deserve to be fairly compensated for your injury. What should you do if you have been harmed by livestock?
Seek Medical Treatment
Your health will be your first concern, so you should seek care for your injury promptly. Keep copies of all your medical bills, prescription costs, rehabilitation costs, and lost wages. When you are ready to proceed, these records can be used to make a clear, effective case for compensation.
Speak with a Livestock Personal Injury Lawyer
As soon as possible, you should consult a livestock personal injury lawyer familiar with livestock personal injury cases. The insurance company may try to dissuade you from filing a claim, so it is important to speak with a livestock personal injury lawyer who can educate you about your options, the amount of compensation you should expect to receive, and the process required to obtain the maximum recompense for your injuries.
Legal Assistance That You Can Count On
Have you or someone you love suffered an injury as the result of an encounter with livestock that were not appropriately restrained? Contact the Law Offices of Bryan Musgrave and arrange for a free case review today to discuss your options and get the legal assistance that you need.
