Cows on the street: Who is responsible for possible damage?: It’s your fault if you get stuck

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Anyone who commutes to work from the city’s countryside has already experienced this: a farmer in a reflective jacket blocks the road, and soon a herd of cows cross the road on their way to pasture. After the traditional Alpine descent, they now return to the barns of the local farm and graze on the surrounding pastures. However, these are generally only available through public means. How does it work with the juxtaposition of cars and cattle?

Important for farmers

According to the SVG Road Traffic Act, cattle are not allowed to travel unaccompanied. He always drives the herd on the right side of the road, that is, in traffic. It is important to be accompanied by reflective clothing and a sufficient number of riders: up to 12 animals are sufficient for two people and for every additional 12 animals one person is needed. If the herd only needs to cross the road, the road should be cordoned off with a warning tape for a short time.

Important for drivers

In general, it’s a bad idea to honk and rumble your engine just because you’re in a hurry. Also not allowed: daring overtaking maneuvers or approaching individual animals. Just give the herd the time it needs. If the herd is crossing the road, wait with the engine off until it passes.

A lot is coming

Strange as it may sound, here’s how: If a herd of cattle comes towards you and you continue to sit in the car with the engine running, the car is considered to be running and therefore you take full responsibility. If a cow then bumps into the exterior mirror, steps on the hood, or scratches the paint with the bell, you will have to pay for most of the damage yourself.

Better yet: pull the car to the right, pull the ignition key and take it with you, get out and stop at the front left corner of the car to catch the cows that have moved away from the car and put them back on the right track. If an animal still damages the vehicle, the cattle owner’s commercial liability insurance will usually cover the damage.

Source: Blick