Taylor County, FL (November 19, 2024) – A tractor-trailer crash involving a cow early Monday morning on US Hwy 19 south of Austin McDonald Rd left the driver with minor injuries and resulted in a fuel spill. The accident occurred shortly before 6 a.m., according to the Florida Highway Patrol (FHP).
The incident unfolded as the tractor-trailer was traveling east on US Hwy 19 when a cow wandered into the roadway. The truck collided with the animal, causing the vehicle to veer across the inside southbound lane before jack-knifing into the center grass median.
The impact caused one of the truck’s fuel tanks to rupture, leading to an unspecified amount of fuel leakage. The Florida Department of Environmental Protection responded to assess and address the environmental impact of the spill.
FHP noted that the owner of the cow remains unidentified. Fortunately, the driver suffered only minor injuries in the crash.
This incident highlights the potential dangers of livestock on rural roadways and the challenges these situations pose to drivers and emergency response teams.
Livestock Accidents in Florida
Florida’s rural roadways, such as US Hwy 19 in Taylor County, often see interactions between vehicles and livestock due to the agricultural nature of the region. Crashes involving large animals can result in significant vehicle damage, injuries, and in some cases, environmental hazards like fuel spills.
Motorists traveling in rural areas are reminded to remain vigilant, especially during early morning hours when visibility may be reduced. Livestock owners are also encouraged to ensure their animals are securely contained to prevent accidents and legal liabilities.
In incidents like this, authorities work to locate the owners of the livestock to ensure accountability and prevent similar occurrences. Drivers involved in such crashes are urged to contact local authorities immediately and remain cautious to avoid secondary incidents.
If you or a loved one has been involved in a crash involving livestock or other roadway hazards, seeking legal guidance can help you navigate insurance claims and potential liability issues.
Local Accident Reports is committed to keeping communities informed and raising awareness about traffic safety. We extend our well-wishes to the driver as they recover and commend the efforts of the Florida Department of Environmental Protection in addressing the fuel spill.