Claiming Compensation for a Horse Riding Injury

How do Horse Riding Accidents Happen?

Horse riding accidents can happen in many different ways and settings, and to both experienced and inexperienced riders. Common examples include:

1. Road traffic accidents – sometimes horse riders use roads which can put them at risk of not being seen by a passing vehicle. Horses can also become spooked by oncoming traffic. While riders are bound by the Highway Code to show a duty of care towards road users, drivers are also required to take care when approaching horses on roads. If they fail to do so, this can cause a serious accident and injury to the horse and rider.
2. Accidents at work – employers are responsible for your health and safety at work. If you work with horses, and you’re injured by a horse because your employer didn’t put protective measures in place for your health and safety, you could be entitled to compensation for your injuries.
3. Competitive accidents – if you’re competing at a horse riding event, the organisers should have put in place protective measures for both spectators and competitors. You could claim compensation if you’re injured at an event because of the negligence of the organisers.
4. Faulty or poorly-fitted equipment – it’s important that riders have the correct clothing and equipment to protect them from injury. Riding centres and stables are responsible for providing well fitted and high-quality equipment and clothing to all riders in their care. Poorly-fitted equipment, such as saddles or reins, could put riders at risk of an accident.
5. Unpredictable horses and inexperienced riders – riding instructors have a duty of care to their riders, which includes making sure that they’re paired with a suitable horse for their level of experience. If an inexperienced rider is paired with a difficult horse and loses control of them, this could lead to a serious injury.