Losses and Lessons: Wandering cow causes damage to the Galaxie
VEHICLE COVERED: 1968 Ford Galaxie 500 XL
WHAT WENT WRONG: From squirrels to porcupines to deer, animals attempting to cross from one side of the road to the other pose a constant threat to drivers. Just imagine seeing a cow in your path. The owner of a 1968 Ford Galaxie 500 XL was cruising along a Texas highway and noticed cows grazing on both sides of the road. What he failed to notice was an “Open Range” sign warning drivers that the animals in the area were free grazing. A calf wandered onto the road, and despite his best efforts, the Galaxie owner couldn’t avoid it.
DAMAGE/LOSS: The driver escaped injury, but his car didn’t – and neither did the calf. The injured animal hobbled back to the herd, but its left rear leg was permanently damaged. The damage to the Galaxie amounted to $4,967.81 (hood, grille, A/C condenser and radiator), which Hagerty paid. The owner of the calf also received compensation.
LESSON: Always be on the lookout for animals when you’re behind the wheel, as even the smallest creature can cause an accident if you swerve to avoid it. Be aware of your surroundings and pay attention to posted warning signs in a case a greater degree of caution is required. And it doesn’t hurt to know that in most cases you are responsible for any injury to livestock.
