Last Updated on 27 May 2025
Dog walker left seriously injured after a cow attack.
A recent incident reported by Somerset Live tells of how a dog walker was left fighting for her life following a cow attack.
Laura Conway was walking her Labrador in a field when a cow charged and trampled her. Suffering a broken collarbone, seven broken ribs, and a serious leg injury, Laura’s story highlights the dangers posed by livestock to people walking in the countryside.
Bringing a compensation claim if you are injured by a cow
Many people may not realise that it is possible to claim compensation for injuries inflicted by cattle.
Claims arising from cow attacks are typically brought under the Animals Act 1971. This is a highly complex piece of legislation that can make proving liability challenging. It is therefore important to consult with solicitors who are experienced in this area of law.
For a compensation claim to succeed, it is usually necessary to demonstrate that the animal had characteristics which made it likely to cause harm, and that the keeper knew, or ought to have known, that this was the case.
These claims often hinge on specific circumstances, such as whether the injured party was using a public right of way, whether signage or warnings were present, and whether the livestock owner took reasonable steps to protect members of the public.
Our track record of dealing with cow attack claims
Based in Devon and Somerset, our lawyer are specialists in dealing with animal injury claims, including those involving cattle and other farm livestock. We have a strong track record of pursuing compensation for individuals injured when landowners or livestock keepers have failed in their legal duty of care.
Partner Jasmine Moxey-Butler acted for a client who was attacked by a cow while out walking. Her client suffered significant internal injuries, including lacerations to her spleen and kidney, and experienced long-term psychological trauma. The farmer’s insurers initially defended the claim. However, Jasmine successfully extracted an admission of liability from them and then went on to negotiate a £45,000 out of court compensation settlement for her client.
Obtain your free consultation
We offer a free legal consultation to anyone who has suffered injury in a cow attack or another other animal-related incident. And because we work on a No Win, No Fee basis, you do not have to worry about legal fees to access justice.