Living in Denver sometimes means sharing the road with pets, livestock, and wild animals. From deer darting across highways to cattle wandering through unfenced areas, animal encounters create real risks for drivers. Understanding your rights and responsibilities after an animal-related crash, however, can make a significant difference in your recovery. Learn about car crashes caused by animals in Denver below.
If an animal causes a car crash in Denver that leaves you with serious injuries, you should be aware of your possible paths for seeking compensation. You might have a claim against a negligent property owner or livestock keeper. Your auto insurance policy may also cover damage from animal collisions, depending on your specific coverage.
What Animal Causes the Most Car Accidents in Denver?
Recent media reports show deer are involved in most accidents involving animals in the Denver metro area. These accidents typically occur during dawn and dusk, when deer become more active and visibility decreases. The Colorado Department of Transportation reports thousands of deer-related collisions each year, many of which occur along I-70, I-25, and other major highways surrounding Denver.
Following deer, black bears pose the second most significant threat to Denver drivers. These massive animals can weigh up to 600 pounds, making any collision dangerous. Smaller wildlife, such as coyotes, foxes, and raccoons, round out the list of common animal-related crashes in the area.
Why Is Colorado Called an ‘Open Range’ State?
Colorado’s status as an “open range” state stems from its storied ranching heritage. Under current livestock laws, cattle can legally graze on any unfenced land in certain areas in certain areas. In some circumstances, animals may graze on public property. However, this freedom comes with significant restrictions.
While the “open range law” allows livestock to roam freely in designated areas, it does not permit animals to wander onto highways or into restricted zones. Property owners must take reasonable steps to protect their animals from high-traffic areas and government-maintained roadways. This delicate balance between ranching traditions and public safety has shaped Colorado’s laws on liability in livestock-related crashes.
The open-range designation has significant implications for drivers in Denver’s rural outskirts, where motorists might encounter livestock on or near roadways. Understanding these laws becomes crucial when determining liability after a collision with livestock.
Who Will Be Held Responsible If I Hit a Cow?
Responsibility for cow-related crashes depends mainly on where and how the accident occurs. Livestock owners are responsible for properly containing their animals in areas near highways or designated no-grazing zones. They may have to pay damages if they fail to maintain fences or adequately secure their livestock and cause a crash.
However, driver behavior also plays a key role. Driving too fast for conditions, especially in known grazing areas, could shift some responsibility to the driver. Colorado follows comparative negligence rules, which means the livestock owner and driver could share fault for the crash, affecting any potential compensation.
Do I Have to Report Hitting a Deer in Denver?
You should always report any collision with a deer or large animal to a local law enforcement agency. When you report the crash, you create an official incident record. Your insurance company may review the police report to process your claim. Swift reporting can also allow authorities to promptly address the situation if the animal poses an ongoing threat to other drivers. Colorado requires drivers to report any crash that results in injury, death, or property damage.
Although your vehicle seems minimally damaged, hidden structural issues could emerge later. Therefore, a police report provides crucial documentation for bodily insurance claims and vehicle repair or replacement claims.
Will My Insurance Cover Damages to My Vehicle If I Hit an Animal?
Your auto insurance coverage for animal-related crashes depends on your specific policy type. Comprehensive coverage typically pays for repairs after animal collisions minus your deductible. This coverage extends to encounters with both wild animals and livestock.
Basic liability insurance alone won’t cover damage to your vehicle from an animal collision. However, if you swerved to avoid an animal and hit another car or object, your collision coverage could apply to those damages. Some insurance policies also include specific provisions for accidents involving livestock, which might affect your coverage options.
Keep in mind that different insurance companies handle animal-related claims differently. Some may raise your rates after such a claim, while others might consider it a “no-fault” accident. Reviewing your policy details can help you understand your coverage before you need it.
What Are Some Tips to Avoid Being Involved in an Animal-Related Crash?
The following smart driving habits can significantly reduce your risk of animal-related crashes:
- Watch for yellow animal crossing signs — These signs mark areas where wildlife frequently cross. They appear in locations with documented animal activity and not by random placement.
- Slow down — You should reduce your speed when driving around dawn and dusk in rural areas. You should also continuously scan the road. Animals often travel in groups, so if you see one cross the road, you should expect others to follow and reduce your speed accordingly.
- Use your high beams when possible — Turning on your high beams will increase your visibility. However, dim them for oncoming traffic.
- If you spot an animal on or near the road, brake firmly, but avoid swerving — Hitting an animal with your car can cause severe damage, but swerving may lead to even more dangerous situations, like head-on collisions or rollovers.
- Maintain a safe following distance from other vehicles — You should ensure you have enough time to react to sudden animal crossings.
Contact a Denver Car Accident Lawyer
After an animal-related crash, The The Wilhite Law Firm is ready to help you understand your legal options and fight for fair compensation. Since 1977, we have built our reputation on providing personalized attention to each client while aggressively pursuing their interests and standing up to insurance companies.
Our deep understanding of Colorado’s unique open-range laws and insurance regulations allows us to build strong cases for our clients. With our team of experienced attorneys and more than 90 dedicated staff members, we have the resources and experience to handle your case effectively while providing the personal attention you deserve. We can manage your claim while you focus on your recovery. To learn more, contact us today and receive a free consultation from our Denver car accident lawyers.
