Not all horse riding accidents have someone at fault. Riding on an animal that can think and act for itself is what makes riding unpredictable and fun! However, riding is an activity which can occasionally result in injury.
If you have had a horse riding accident here or abroad on holiday and suffered injury and financial loss, whether you were riding a horse for pleasure or working with them, then you may be able to claim a sum of money to compensate you. The purpose of such compensation is for you to be put back in the position you would have been had the accident not happened. This can enable you to obtain funds to pay for expenses, much needed treatment/ rehabilitation, vets fees, your loss of earnings and so on....
A typical horse riding accident can be limited to a simple fracture, however given the nature of the sport, brain injury and spinal injuries are also common. Very often people suffer head injuries and don't appreciate the plethora of symptoms that can follow as a result. These can include, difficulties with memory, concentration, change in personality, anxiety, depression, as well as the more commonly known symptoms such as headaches. Horse riding accidents can be caused by:
- Defective or ill-fitting equipment
- Allowing a rider to ride an inappropriate horse or pony for their riding ability or experience
- Failure to risk assess the rider and/or the horse / pony they are allocated
- Poorly organised hacks with inadequate leadership and supervision
- Road traffic accidents involving horses, including irresponsible driving or riders not being given correct safety and high-visability clothing
- Insufficient checking of saddle and girth causing them to loosen and the rider to fall
- Kicks from a horse
- Being crushed by a horse
- Failure to train and or supervise employees
- Riding on an unsuitable surface
- Failing to warn the rider of particular characteristic or vice that is likely to cause injury
- Failing to provide a safe environment for lessons
- Falling or being injured on the yard or in the riding stables as a consequence of those responsible for the premises not taking reasonable steps to make sure they are safe