Accidents
Animal attack - Dog Bites
No matter how tame an animal appears to be, its behaviour cannot always be controlled. Although many people keep animals, whether as pets or for agriculture, it is unreasonable to expect that the animals be so closely controlled to completely eliminate the risk of injury to others, so always be aware that even the cutest little dog bites.
With this in mind, the law says that anyone who keeps a dangerous animal, does so at their own peril and is strictly liable for any injury it may cause.
This is in contrast to the owner of domesticated animals, cats, dogs, horses, cattle, etc. who will not, generally, be liable for any injury caused, unless the owner is negligent or there are special reasons for him to believe the animal might be unusually dangerous.
The more common claims result from dog bites or attacks by other domestic animals but claims may also arise from injuries caused by horses or cattle.
Animals on the Road
Owners are under a duty to keep all cattle, horses and their livestock fenced so as to avoid accidents.
The responsibility for cattle being moved across the road rests with the person/s moving the animals and any irresponsible cattle owner, who allows their cattle access to an open road without supervision, is laying themselves open to a personal injury claim should an animal cause an accident or attack a person or a vehicle.
If a dog runs across the road, and causes an accident, the owner will be liable because the law requires that dogs on a public highway should be on a lead.
