From elsewhere, with citations of "Jewish sources:"

[quote]
Two passages in Exodus treat of an ox doing harm: the first of harm to a person (xxi. 28-32); the second to the ox of another owner (ib. 35-36). The verb used in the first passage is "nagaḥ" (to gore); that in the second, "nagaf" (to strike or hurt). But, according to the tradition, the rules laid down in either passage apply to goring, striking with the body, biting, kicking, and lying on. These rules are also extended to animals other than oxen, either injuring or injured (B. Ḳ. i. 4); and, while the texts contemplate killing only, the rules apply to lesser injuries also.
[end quote]

Those of us who know little of olden jewish tradition have had the impression that animals, and even inanimate objects could, in some circumstances, be held "criminally liable." It would be expected that the "rules" in reference above may provide some further elucidation, but I've got other things that must be done before I look them up.

Later, maybe.

John