The Oregon State Police (OSP) have reported a concerning trend of cow-versus-car crashes in Baker County, with two recent incidents resulting in the tragic loss of four livestock, including a calf. These collisions serve as a stark reminder of the unique challenges faced by drivers traversing the open-range regions of Eastern Oregon, where livestock can unexpectedly wander onto the roadways.

Collisions on the Open Range: A Growing Concern

Crash on Highway ORE7 Claims One Calf

The first reported incident occurred on October 29, 2024, at approximately 7:11 p.m. along Highway ORE7 near Milepost 15.6 Northbound. According to the official OSP description, a northbound vehicle traveling at 50 mph encountered several cows in the road and was unable to avoid colliding with a calf. The vehicle sustained severe front-end damage, and the calf was killed at the scene. The driver's information was provided to the responsible party for the calf, in case they wished to pursue a claim.

Three Angus Cattle Struck on Highway ORE7

The second crash took place the following day, October 30, at around 6:37 p.m., also along Highway ORE7 near Milepost 15 Northbound. A southbound 2008 Dodge Caliber struck three black Angus cattle in the roadway, causing the vehicle to leave the road and come to a rest in the ditch. The driver and passenger were transported to a nearby hospital with suspected minor injuries. The three cattle were deceased and removed from the roadway.

The Open-Range Dilemma

These incidents highlight the unique challenges faced by drivers in Eastern Oregon, where much of the region falls under open-range jurisdiction. This means that livestock, including cattle, horses, and other animals, are free to roam the land, often wandering onto the roads. Baker County, in particular, contains both open-range and livestock district lands, further increasing the likelihood of livestock-vehicle collisions.

Navigating the Open Range: Advice for Drivers

Drivers traversing the open-range regions of Eastern Oregon must remain vigilant and exercise caution. Experts recommend that motorists slow down, especially during dusk and dawn hours when livestock are more active, and be prepared to react quickly to the presence of animals on the roadway. Additionally, it is crucial for drivers to stay alert and scan the road ahead, as livestock can appear suddenly and without warning.

Livestock Owners: Responsibility and Liability

While the open-range system presents challenges for drivers, livestock owners also bear a responsibility to ensure the safety of their animals. In some cases, owners may be held liable for damages or injuries resulting from livestock-vehicle collisions, particularly if the animals were found to have escaped from a fenced enclosure or if the owner failed to take reasonable precautions to prevent the animals from wandering onto the road.

Collaboration and Education: Addressing the Issue

To mitigate the risks of livestock-vehicle collisions, local authorities, transportation agencies, and livestock owners must work together to develop comprehensive solutions. This may involve installing additional signage, implementing road safety measures, and educating both drivers and livestock owners on the importance of shared responsibility and vigilance. By fostering collaboration and raising awareness, the communities of Eastern Oregon can work to enhance road safety and protect both human and animal lives.