Columbia Animal Crossing the Street Accident Lawyer

Roads and highways across Columbia wind through areas where wildlife and domestic animals roam freely. When animals unexpectedly dart into traffic, drivers face split-second decisions that can lead to devastating accidents. Whether you swerve to avoid hitting an animal and strike another vehicle, lose control and hit a fixed object, or sustain injuries in a direct collision with an animal, the aftermath can involve serious injuries, extensive vehicle damage, and complex legal questions about liability.

If you’ve been injured in an accident involving an animal crossing the street in Columbia, the car accident attorneys at Stewart Law Offices understand the unique challenges these cases present. Our experienced Columbia car accident lawyers know how to investigate these crashes, identify all liable parties, and build compelling cases that maximize your compensation.

How Common Are Animal-Related Car Accidents in South Carolina?

Animals move unpredictably, often at night or during peak migration seasons. Drivers may have only seconds to react, and swerving can cause secondary crashes. According to the FHWA Wildlife Crossings Program, wildlife-vehicle collisions cost the U.S. economy over $8 billion annually in damages, medical costs, and lost productivity.

According to the South Carolina Department of Public Safety’s 2023 Traffic Collision Fact Book, South Carolina experienced 6,514 deer collisions in 2023 alone, representing approximately 4.5% of all reported traffic collisions statewide. This marked a significant increase from previous years, highlighting a growing safety concern across the state.

Columbia’s blend of urban and rural areas leads to frequent animal encounters. Deer from Lake Murray and the Congaree River, as well as domestic and other wild animals (dogs, raccoons, rodents), cause thousands of accidents, injuries, and insurance claims annually. State Farm reports that deer alone account for over 1.1 million incidents. Animals often cross busy roads during peak commuting times leading to sudden braking and rear-end crashes.

Why These Collisions Are So Dangerous

When drivers encounter animals in the roadway, their instinctive reaction is often to swerve, which can cause more harm than the initial encounter. Swerving may lead to rollovers, striking fixed objects, head‑on collisions, side‑impact crashes, or running off the road into ditches and embankments. 

Studies show that about 45% of deer‑vehicle collisions occur during the October–November breeding season, when deer movement spikes. Most crashes occur at dawn and dusk, coinciding with reduced visibility and rush-hour commuting.

When Are Animal Collisions Most Likely to Occur?

Understanding when animal collisions happen most frequently can help drivers stay alert, but it’s also crucial information when building a legal case:

  • Dawn and Dusk Hours: Animals are most active during twilight, typically between 5:00 AM and 8:00 AM and between 5:00 PM and 8:00 PM. Limited visibility during these times makes it harder for drivers to spot animals until it’s too late.
  • October through December: Deer mating season, known as the “rut,” occurs from October through December. During this period, deer behavior becomes unpredictable as they search for mates and cross roads without regard for traffic. 
  • After Heavy Rain: Flooding and wet conditions drive animals from their usual habitats, forcing them to cross roadways in search of higher ground or food.
  • Near Wooded Areas and Water Sources: Roads bordering forests, parks, or bodies of water see higher rates of animal collisions as wildlife moves between feeding and drinking areas.

Types of Animals Causing Columbia Accidents

The presence of animals on South Carolina roads poses various collision risks. White-tailed deer are the most prevalent wildlife hazard, particularly on rural highways and secondary roads near wooded areas.

Other common causes of accidents include domestic animals:

  • Dogs that roam freely or escape yards can chase vehicles or run into traffic.
  • Feral and outdoor cats frequently dart unpredictably across streets, especially around dawn and dusk.

Nocturnal wildlife, such as raccoons and opossums, also frequently cross roads at night while foraging. Furthermore, escaped livestock, including horses, cows, and pigs, pose a significant collision hazard when they wander onto roadways due to their size.

The distinction between wild and domestic animals matters significantly when determining liability and pursuing compensation, especially in severe incidents that may result in wrongful death claims.

Who Is Liable for Animal Collision Accidents?

Determining liability in accidents involving animals is often complex, depending heavily on the type of animal involved:

1. Wild Animals (e.g., Deer, Raccoons):

  • Owner Liability: Generally, no individual is held liable for accidents caused by wild animals, as these animals are not owned property.
  • Compensation: You may still be able to recover damages through your own auto insurance:
    • Comprehensive Coverage: Covers direct strikes with a wild animal.
    • Collision Coverage: Covers accidents that occur from swerving to avoid an animal.
  • Alternative Liability: In some instances, liability may fall on others if factors such as poor road design or inadequate wildlife warning signs contributed to the accident.

2. Domestic Animals and Livestock (e.g., Dogs, Cats, Cattle):

  • Owner Liability: Owners of domestic animals and livestock in South Carolina have a legal duty to restrain their animals and prevent them from entering roadways. Because animals are considered property under state law, owners can be held liable for the damages their animal causes.
  • Recoverable Damages: If a pet or livestock owner’s negligence causes an accident, they may be liable for the victim’s losses, which can include:
    • Medical Expenses
    • Lost Wages
    • Vehicle Damage
    • Pain and Suffering
    • Property Damage (to other vehicles or structures)
  • Insurance: Homeowner’s insurance may cover these claims, but victims often face high out-of-pocket costs when policy limits are exceeded.

3. Government Entities:

  • Shared Liability: In rare cases, a government agency responsible for road maintenance might share liability. This typically occurs if the accident was caused, in part, by their failure to provide adequate wildlife fencing, essential warning signs, or a safe road design.

Steps to Take After an Animal Collision

Protect your legal rights by taking these steps immediately:

  1. Stop Safely: Pull over to a safe location and turn on your hazard lights. Under South Carolina law, leaving the scene of an accident is illegal.
  2. Call Police: Report the accident to law enforcement. A police report creates official documentation, especially important if the animal is deceased at the scene.
  3. Don’t Approach Injured Animals: Wounded animals can be dangerous. Report injured deer to the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources at (803) 734-3886.
  4. Document Everything: Take photos of your vehicle damage, the accident scene, any visible animal remains, skid marks, and the surrounding area. Get contact information from witnesses.
  5. Seek Medical Attention: Even if you feel fine, see a doctor within 24 hours. Adrenaline can mask serious injuries.
  6. Identify the Animal Owner: If a domestic animal caused the accident, try to identify the owner through collar tags or by asking nearby residents.
  7. Contact a Car Accident Attorney: Before giving statements to insurance companies, speak with an experienced lawyer who understands animal collision cases.

Visit Our Animal Crossing the Street Accident Lawyer in Columbia

Contact a Columbia Car Wreck Lawyer For Assistance With A Animal-Car Accident

Animal collision accidents are more complicated than standard car accident cases. You need attorneys who understand wildlife behavior patterns, pet owner liability laws, and how to prove causation when insurance companies claim there’s no evidence an animal was involved.

Stewart Law Offices has over 30 years of experience representing Columbia accident victims. We’ve recovered millions in compensation and know how to fight for every dollar you deserve.

We offer free consultations and work on a contingency basis; you pay no attorney fees unless we win your case.

Call 8803-743-4200 now or contact us online to discuss your animal collision case with an experienced Columbia Car Accident Lawyer.