If you’ve recently suffered harm as a result of a crash caused by an animal, it may not shock you to learn that these kinds of crashes often result in a great deal of damage for those involved. However, it may surprise you that those affected can be entitled to compensation, even though the creatures at fault for such wrecks are not human.
Animal-related accidents can lead to serious injuries, significant medical expenses and emotional trauma. In North Carolina, victims of such incidents have the right to seek compensation if the harm resulted from the negligence of an animal’s owner or keeper. Under certain circumstances, government entities may be responsible for wrecks caused by wild animals.
North Carolina laws about animal-related liability
In North Carolina, liability for animal-related accidents is often determined by the state’s negligence and strict liability laws. Here are the key principles:
- Strict Liability for Dangerous Dogs: If an owner knows their dog is dangerous or has a history of aggression – including racing out into the road in order to provoke an attack, which could cause a crash – they can be held strictly liable for injuries caused by the dog. This means the injured person does not need to prove negligence; the owner’s knowledge of the dog’s behavior is sufficient.
- Negligence-Based Liability: If an owner fails to properly control or restrain their animal and it causes injury, they may be found negligent. As many crashes occur due to domesticated animals on the loose, this is often a particularly relevant concern.
- Livestock and Fencing Laws: In rural areas, North Carolina law requires livestock owners to maintain secure fencing. If a loose animal causes a car accident, its owner may be held responsible for damages.
Animal-related injury claims can be successful under a variety of circumstances. However, they can also be complex. As a result, it is generally wise to seek personalized legal guidance before committing to a specific approach in the wake of an accident caused by an animal. Making this effort can help to ensure that you benefit from the strongest possible legal strategy moving forward.
