Causes of livestock vehicle accidents in the UK and the consequences for the animals involved

Livestock vehicle accidents can have devastating consequences for the welfare of animals being transported yet little is known about the characteristics of these accidents in the UK. This study obtained details of 207 livestock vehicle accidents that occurred in the UK between 2003-2013 from internet media reports and archive newspaper records. A highly significant difference (P<0.005) was found in the frequency of accidents at different times of the day with 43% occurring between 7am and 11am. A significant difference (P<0.005) was also found in the distribution of accidents throughout the year with notable increases in October and November. Cattle were involved in the most accidents (41%), followed by sheep (26%), pigs (15%) and chickens (15%). Accurate livestock casualty numbers could not be obtained, but the results indicated the vast majority of animals killed were chickens. The majority of accidents only involved the livestock vehicle (78%), with large transporters being involved in most incidents (72%). There was a highly significant difference (P<0.001) in the causes of accidents with overturning being the main reason; caused by a sudden and substantial shift in livestock position. All livestock are at risk in large transporters; whilst cattle face additional risks when towed in trailers behind 4x4 vehicles. Two factors contribute to overturning accidents; poor driving style and commercial livestock vehicle design. Driving style can be improved through training and reduced pressure on drivers, whilst better vehicle design can be achieved by adopting new technologies and changing some industry practice.