Spring in California often brings warmer temperatures, longer days, and increased wildlife activity. Unfortunately, it is also a time when animal collision car accidents become more common. As animals appear from winter habitats, migrate, or search for food, they often cross roadways unexpectedly. As a result, drivers are often unprepared and may collide with these animals, causing serious accidents. Understanding how these accidents occur, who may be responsible, and what steps to take afterward can help drivers protect their rights and maintain their safety.
Why Do Animal Collision Car Accidents Increase During Spring
Spring creates ideal conditions for wildlife movement. Deer, coyotes, elk, wild boars, mountain lions, and other animals usually become more active as temperatures rise. In many areas, breeding seasons and food availability can contribute to increased road crossings. The following factors may also contribute to the rise in animal collision car accidents during spring.
- Increased wildlife migration patterns
- Longer daylight hours result in more animal activity
- Growth of roadside vegetation that can reduce visibility
Even cautious drivers may have little time to react when an animal suddenly enters the roadway.
Common Injuries Resulting From Wildlife-Related Collisions
While some accidents involving animals only cause vehicle damage, others may result in significant injuries. The severity often depends on vehicle speed, road conditions, and the size of the animal involved. Common injuries may include:
- Whiplash
- Neck and back injuries
- Head trauma
- Concussions
- Broken bones
- Shoulder injuries
- Facial injuries from airbag deployment
- Internal injuries
- Soft tissue damage
Understanding Wild Animal Car Accident Claims
It is important to note that oftentimes, wild animal car accident claims are handled differently from cases involving traditional motor vehicles. Unlike collisions involving another driver, there is usually no individual who can be held directly responsible for the animal's actions. Instead, compensation often depends on the type of insurance coverage available.
Potential insurance policies that may apply include:
- Comprehensive auto insurance coverage
- Collision coverage
- Medical payments coverage
- Personal injury protection
- Uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage
Each policy contains different terms and limitations. Speaking to an attorney may help you determine what benefits may be available following an animal-related collision.
Wildlife Crossing Accident Liability: Who May Be Responsible?
Oftentimes, determining liability after a wildlife crossing accident can be a challenging process. In most cases, no party is automatically liable simply because a wild animal entered the roadway. Wildlife often falls outside the control of individual property owners or government agencies.
However, liability questions may arise in certain circumstances, including:
Dangerous Road Conditions
A government agency may have responsibilities related to roadway maintenance and safety. The following situations may be used in determining liability during an investigation.
- Missing warning signs
- Inadequate road maintenance
- Known hazardous wildlife crossing areas
Private Property Issues
Sometimes, a collision may involve animals escaping from private property rather than the wild. Livestock such as cattle, horses, sheep, or goats may create different legal considerations when an accident occurs, ultimately causing the property owner to be held accountable.
What to Do Immediately After an Animal Collision
The moments after an accident can be stressful and confusing. Taking the appropriate steps may help protect both your safety and the safety of those around you.
Check for Injuries
After an accident, victims should examine themselves for injuries.
Move to a Safe Location
If possible, victims should move the vehicle out of traffic to reduce the risk of further damage.
Contact Law Enforcement
Police reports can provide important documentation regarding the accident and may also become helpful later on.
Document the Scene
If it is safe to do so, victims should consider documenting the scene of the accident by taking photos of the following.
- Vehicle damage
- Road conditions
- Skid marks
- Wildlife warning signs
- Weather conditions
- The animal
Seek Medical Attention
It is also important to seek medical attention immediately after a collision.
How Evidence Can Affect Wild Animal Car Accident Claims
Evidence can play an important role in evaluating wild animal car accident claims. Useful evidence may include:
- Police reports
- Witness statements
- Dash camera footage
- Surveillance video
- Vehicle damage assessments
- Medical records
- Wildlife incident reports
- Roadway maintenance records
Legal Guidance After a Wildlife Collision
While many animal car accidents are handled through insurance claims, some situations can involve additional legal considerations. Drivers may benefit from seeking legal guidance when:
- Serious injuries occurred
- Liability is disputed
- Government entities may be involved
- Insurance coverage questions arise
- Multiple parties contributed to the accident
- Significant property damage occurred
An attorney can help review available evidence, explain applicable laws, and discuss potential options based on the facts of the case.
How KAASS LAW Can Help
After a wildlife-related vehicle collision, injured individuals often face medical treatment, vehicle repairs, insurance paperwork, and uncertainty about their next steps. KAASS LAW is determined to help victims understand their legal and insurance options when pursuing an accident claim. Our legal team may be able to investigate the incident, review available evidence, and communicate with insurance companies. Every case is different, and the available legal options may depend on the specific facts involved. Call KAASS LAW today to learn more.