Public rights of way: how livestock farmers can reduce risks

Farmers who keep livestock in fields crossed by public rights of way can be liable to civil and/or criminal proceedings if members of the public are injured by their livestock.

Fortunately, such incidents are rare.

Cases where members of the public are injured by livestock often attract considerable media attention, which can be upsetting and stressful for the farmers involved, even if they are not in any way at fault for the incident occurring. Farmers may also be one of the first on the scene if they are promptly notified of an incident on their land, which can also be a very distressing experience.

No-one wants to have an incident on their land, so it is worth considering what steps can be taken to reduce the risks of injuries occurring. It is also important to check the terms of your insurance policies to ensure that you are familiar with any requirements in those documents regarding livestock which are kept on land to which the public has access.

Individual farmers who are concerned about their situation should take independent advice on their particular circumstances. NFU members can also obtain free initial legal and professional advice in relation to their own personal circumstances from NFU CallFirst on 0370 845 8458.