Animal-related accidents can happen in a variety of settings—and while some involve bites or attacks, others result from collisions, falls, or unpredictable behavior. Whether you were bitten by a dog, thrown from a horse, or injured in a car accident caused by a loose animal, you may have the right to seek compensation for your injuries. A personal injury lawyer can help determine who is liable, what kind of claim you can file, and how to pursue the damages you’re entitled to. Our friends at Patterson Bray PLLC have seen many different types of accidents, and explain some of the most common animal-related accidents, below.
Common Types Of Animal-Related Accidents
One of the most common animal injury cases involves dog bites. These incidents can cause serious injuries, including deep wounds, infections, nerve damage, and permanent scarring. In most cases, dog owners are legally responsible if their pet attacks someone—especially if the dog had shown aggressive behavior in the past or was not properly contained.
Horse-related injuries are also common, particularly at farms, stables, or during riding lessons. Riders can be thrown, kicked, or trampled. While equine activities often come with waivers and assumed risk, there are still situations where a property owner, trainer, or event organizer may be liable, especially if they failed to provide proper safety equipment, supervision, or a safe environment.
Accidents involving animals on the road—like deer, livestock, or escaped pets—can lead to serious collisions. In rural areas, farm animals that get loose and wander onto roads may cause drivers to swerve, crash, or collide with other vehicles. If the animal’s owner failed to maintain secure fencing or control their animals, they could be held accountable for the resulting injuries and property damage.
There are also cases where animals in public spaces, like zoos or petting farms, cause injuries due to poor handling or a lack of proper warnings. In these situations, the organization responsible for the animal may be found negligent if they failed to keep visitors safe.
Determining Liability
Liability in animal accident cases depends on several factors, including where the incident occurred, the type of animal involved, and whether the owner or handler acted negligently. For example, a dog owner who lets their pet roam without a leash in a public area may be liable if the dog bites someone. A stable that allows an inexperienced rider to handle a skittish horse without guidance could also be responsible if an injury occurs.
In car accidents involving animals, liability becomes more complex. If the animal is wild, like a deer, there may be no one to hold responsible. But if the animal is domesticated or farm-raised, and its owner failed to take proper precautions, that negligence may be the basis for a personal injury claim.
A personal injury lawyer can investigate the facts, determine who may be liable, and help gather the evidence needed to support your case.
Seeking Compensation For Injuries
Injuries from animal-related accidents can be both physically and emotionally traumatic. Victims may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, lost income, pain and suffering, disfigurement, and any long-term rehabilitation or therapy required.
Dog bite victims, for instance, may face not only physical wounds but also emotional trauma, especially in children. Riders injured in horse accidents might suffer serious spinal or head injuries that impact mobility. In all these situations, compensation can help ease the financial burden while you focus on healing. A lawyer can help determine what constitutes a personal injury case with an animal.
How A Personal Injury Lawyer Can Help
Animal accident claims often involve sensitive details, conflicting stories, and insurance companies looking to deny liability. A personal injury lawyer will know how to handle these cases with care and strategy. They can help document your injuries, collect witness accounts, consult with animal behavior experts if needed, and ensure that your claim is filed properly and within all legal deadlines.
If you’ve been injured due to the actions or negligence of an animal or its owner, don’t assume you have to deal with the consequences on your own. A personal injury lawyer can help protect your rights, hold the responsible party accountable, and pursue the compensation you need to recover and move forward.