Driving at night on a highway often comes with risks that drivers cannot always predict. For one family traveling through Horry County, that risk became a terrifying reality when their vehicle collided with multiple cows that had wandered onto Highway 22, a type of unusual roadway incident a car accident lawyer may review when livestock presence leads to serious crashes and liability questions.
The crash, which occurred Saturday night, highlights a rarely discussed but serious roadway danger: loose livestock on high-speed highways. While animal-related crashes are often associated with deer or smaller wildlife, large farm animals create a far more dangerous situation due to their size, weight, and limited visibility at night.
This incident has raised important questions about road safety, livestock responsibility, and whether earlier warnings could have prevented the collision.
What Happened on Highway 22
The Schulze family was driving along Highway 22 Saturday evening when they suddenly encountered a herd of cattle blocking the roadway. According to the family, the road was dark, and the cows’ black coats blended into the surroundings, leaving little time to react.
With a posted speed limit of 65 miles per hour, the driver was unable to bring the vehicle to a complete stop before impact. The family struck multiple cows, resulting in severe damage to their vehicle and injuries to the occupants.
Heather Schulze, who was riding as a passenger, later described the moment as instantaneous. The cows appeared suddenly, leaving no meaningful opportunity to avoid a collision.
Severity of the Impact and Resulting Injuries
The force of the collision caused airbags to deploy inside the family’s vehicle, a Jeep Grand Cherokee that they had recently purchased. All three occupants sustained minor injuries but were able to exit the vehicle on their own.
The family credited the structural safety of their vehicle for protecting their lives during the crash. Despite the outcome being far better than it could have been, the incident still left them shaken, injured, and facing the loss of a heavily damaged vehicle.
Crashes involving large animals often lead to serious injuries or fatalities. The fact that the family survived with minor injuries does not diminish the seriousness of the event or the risks that existed on the roadway that night.
Loose Livestock Along a Major Highway
Following the crash, authorities confirmed that loose cattle had been seen roaming along Highway 22 between US 501 and SC 319. The presence of livestock in this area prompted a traffic advisory from the Horry County Police Department.
Officials later stated that the owners of the cows had been identified and were working to secure the animals. However, at the time of the crash, the cattle were still uncontained and unmarked on a fast-moving roadway.
Authorities also confirmed that approximately a dozen cows remained loose in the area, leading to continued police presence and warning signage through Sunday night.
Visibility Challenges During Night Driving
One of the most significant factors in this crash was visibility. The Schulze family stated they did not see the cows until it was too late. The cattle’s dark coloring blended into the night, making them nearly invisible on an unlit stretch of highway.
Nighttime driving already limits reaction time. When combined with high speeds and large, stationary obstacles, the danger increases significantly. Unlike wildlife that may dart across a road, cattle can remain standing or move slowly, making collisions more severe.
The family also expressed concern that additional street lighting could have helped them see the animals sooner, potentially preventing the crash altogether.
Timing of Warnings and Public Notifications
A major concern raised by the family was the delay in public warnings. According to Heather Schulze, videos showing cattle walking along the roadside were posted online earlier in the day, well before their crash occurred around 9 p.m.
The family believes that earlier public alerts or roadway warnings could have reduced the risk to drivers traveling through the area that evening. They questioned why more visible warnings were not issued sooner, given the length of time the cattle were reportedly loose.
Public safety advisories play a critical role in preventing accidents, especially when known hazards exist on major highways.
Legal Responsibility in Livestock-Related Crashes
Crashes involving loose livestock present complex legal questions. Responsibility may depend on several factors, including how the animals escaped, whether fencing was properly maintained, and how quickly owners acted once the issue was known.
In South Carolina, livestock owners are generally expected to take reasonable steps to prevent animals from wandering onto roadways. When animals are allowed to roam freely and cause damage or injury, liability issues may arise.
Each situation is evaluated based on its specific facts, including prior warnings, response times, and whether proper safety measures were in place.
Role of Local Authorities and Ongoing Safety Measures
After the crash, Horry County officials confirmed that officers and warning signs would remain in the area while efforts continued to secure the remaining cattle. These measures are intended to reduce the risk of additional collisions.
Traffic advisories, law enforcement presence, and signage are essential when hazards cannot be immediately resolved. However, their effectiveness depends heavily on timing and visibility.
When known dangers exist for extended periods, delays in response can increase the likelihood of serious incidents.
Property Damage and Insurance Complications
Beyond the immediate injuries, the family now faces significant property damage. Their vehicle was heavily damaged in the collision, adding financial stress to an already traumatic event.
Insurance claims involving livestock accidents can be complicated. Determining fault may involve vehicle insurers, livestock owners, and potentially other parties. Documentation, police reports, and witness statements often play a key role in resolving these matters.
Even when injuries are minor, the financial impact of vehicle loss and medical treatment can be substantial.
Why Livestock on Highways Is a Serious Public Safety Issue
High-speed highways are not designed to accommodate large animals. When livestock enter these roadways, the risk to drivers increases dramatically.
Unlike rural backroads, highways like Highway 22 carry fast-moving traffic with limited stopping distance. The presence of unrestrained animals on such roads can lead to catastrophic outcomes.
This incident underscores the importance of proper fencing, rapid response, and timely communication when livestock escape containment.
Lessons for Drivers and Communities
While drivers cannot control every hazard they encounter, awareness of known risks can save lives. When advisories are issued, reducing speed and remaining alert becomes critical.
Communities also play a role in reporting hazards quickly and ensuring that information reaches the public in time. Early warnings and visible alerts can make a meaningful difference in preventing accidents.
Incidents like this one often serve as reminders of the shared responsibility involved in roadway safety.
About Ted Law Firm
At Ted Law Firm, Serious crashes often raise difficult legal questions, especially when unexpected hazards are involved. We serve families across Aiken, Anderson, Charleston, Columbia, Greenville, Myrtle Beach, North Augusta and Orangeburg. Ted Law Firm focuses on helping individuals understand their legal position after complex roadway incidents. Contact us today for a free consultation.
