“A very lucky escape” – Driver’s narrow escape after car collides with cow in Co Antrim

A motorist had a remarkable escape last night after a dramatic collision involving a cow on a rural road just outside Ballymoney, the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) has confirmed.

Police described the incident as a “very lucky escape”!

The incident, which occurred on an unlit stretch of road, left the driver shaken but unharmed, though the vehicle was written off and the animal involved suffered fatal injuries.

According to a statement from the PSNI’s Rural Neighbourhood Officers, the collision took place late on Thursday evening, April 11, when the driver’s car struck a black cow that had strayed onto the roadway.

The impact caused the animal to be thrown onto the vehicle’s bonnet before crashing into the windscreen, which held firm until the driver could bring the car to a stop.

Photographs released by the PSNI show the severely damaged vehicle, with the windscreen cracked from the force of the collision.

Police praised the driver for adhering to the speed limit, a factor they believe may have been critical in preventing a more tragic outcome.

“Thankfully, this driver was doing the speed limit, which may have saved his life,” the PSNI statement noted. The driver emerged from the ordeal physically unscathed but was reported to be deeply shaken by the experience.

Sadly, the cow involved in the collision sustained severe injuries deemed “beyond repair.” A local veterinarian attended the scene and made the difficult decision to euthanise the animal to prevent further suffering.

The PSNI highlighted the dangers posed by livestock on rural roads, particularly in poorly lit areas where visibility can be limited.

“A black cow on an unlit road led to a written-off car but, thankfully, a safe and well driver,” the statement read. Officers used the incident to issue a broader call for vigilance among motorists, urging drivers to remain cautious, adhere to speed limits, and stay alert for unexpected hazards.

The police also directed a message to livestock owners, emphasising the importance of ensuring animals are securely contained. “If you own livestock, or animals of any sort, even just your pets, please be sure to ensure they are appropriately housed and contained,” the PSNI advised, stressing the need for responsible animal management to prevent similar incidents.

The PSNI concluded their statement with a succinct safety message: “Think smart, stay smart, and stay safe!”