Who’s responsible for truck damage from a manure spreader... any ideas?

I live in NW Ohio near a CAFO with over 4000 cattle. They spread manure, and with the heavy machinery and tanker trucks, the roads are getting wrecked. The road in front of my house is supposed to be 20ft wide, but it’s down to 16ft (according to the township trustees), and my truck got sideswiped by the manure spreader. My mirror got broken off, and now I’m stuck trying to figure out who’s responsible for paying. The CAFO says it’s the road’s fault, the township blames the CAFO, and the county says I should talk to the township. But the township’s never brought up road issues with the state, and it feels like no one wants to fix the roads because of the revenue the CAFO brings in. Anyone know what to do?

Sounds like a mess! If the CAFO’s equipment caused the damage, they should be responsible, right? Maybe try talking to someone at the state level about the roads?

Van said:
Sounds like a mess! If the CAFO’s equipment caused the damage, they should be responsible, right? Maybe try talking to someone at the state level about the roads?

Yeah, that sounds like a good idea. The CAFO seems to be passing the blame around. But IDK if the state would get involved for something like this.

@Tory
Maybe, but it’s worth a shot. If they’re breaking the roads, the state might have rules about keeping them safe for everyone, including farm trucks.

Wow, that’s tough. It seems like no one wants to take responsibility, huh? I would recommend gathering photos of the damage to your truck and the road. That might help if you need to take it up with someone.

@Zeke
Good call. I’m sure having pics of both would make your case stronger if you go back to the township.

It sucks when you get caught in the middle of something like this. I’d also check if the township has any local rules about road upkeep with all the CAFO traffic. Might be some hidden details in the fine print.

@Linden
Yeah, it’s gotta be frustrating. If the township is avoiding the issue, maybe reaching out to a local lawyer or even state authorities could help move things forward. Just don’t let them brush you off.

@Sky
Totally! The county’s not gonna help, but the state might push them to fix the problem. Just gotta keep pressing.

Sounds like a tough situation. Maybe you could try getting in touch with your local news to bring attention to the road damage? That could put pressure on the township or the CAFO to step up.

Lexi said:
Sounds like a tough situation. Maybe you could try getting in touch with your local news to bring attention to the road damage? That could put pressure on the township or the CAFO to step up.

Good idea, STU. If they get enough public attention, maybe something will get done about it.

Honestly, it might come down to who you can get to help. If the CAFO’s equipment broke your mirror, they should pay. Try reaching out to a lawyer who deals with road damage or agricultural disputes.

Reilly said:
Honestly, it might come down to who you can get to help. If the CAFO’s equipment broke your mirror, they should pay. Try reaching out to a lawyer who deals with road damage or agricultural disputes.

True, getting a lawyer involved might make the process faster. Don’t let them dodge it too long.