Taking a tumble
QWhen trying out horses to buy, what are the implications if I fall off while riding on the seller’s yard? Should I take out extra insurance to cover myself? Bailey Temple, Reading
Rebecca says... It very much depends why you fell off the horse in the first place. For example, if you fell off because you are an inexperienced rider and could not cope with the level of horse that you went to try, then it’s unlikely that the horse’s owner would be 100% responsible (“liable”). However, if you fell off because the horse bolted or was rearing and bucking, it’s likely the horse’s owner would potentially be liable for any injury or damage that was caused. Ideally, the horse’s owner should be insured against any potential claims. However, it is not a legal requirement that a horse is insured. I would advise that you do take out extra insurance or notify your insurance company to ensure you are personally insured for riding someone else’s horse in case you fall off and hurt yourself.