Horseback riding is an American pastime that people of all ages can enjoy. Unfortunately, when companies that offer recreational riding don’t adhere to safety standards, serious injuries can occur which may lead to life changing conditions. Although often docile when properly trained, a horse can still be a dangerous animal with enough strength to kill someone if approached incorrectly.
Children who are not familiar with approaching a horse are at the greatest risk for horseback riding accidents. Around 15,000 emergency room visits a year are from children suffering horse riding injuries. Injuries can also occur outside of recreational riding, with professional jockey racing or plains riding leading to even more risk in higher intensity situations. When you’ve experienced an injury from horseback riding, a personal injury attorney can help you receive the compensation you need to recover.
Injuries from Horseback Riding
Horse riding attorneys see a variety of injuries from accidents, the most common include:
- Paralyzed muscles
- Broken bones
- Spinal Cord Fracture
- Bite marks and injuries
- Sensory loss
- Concussions
- Traumatic brain injury
- Dislocated joints
Head injuries make up the majority of cases for horseback riding lawsuits, and most deaths from these events come from traumatic brain damage. Businesses should provide helmets to ensure safe horseback riding. Other tips for safety include:
- Staying on riding trails approved by professionals.
- Using a saddle that is comfortable for the animal and fits the rider.
- Staying aware of situations that may make the horse act irrationally.
- Close supervision of children.
- Using riding equipment that is free from defects.
Horseback Riding Liability
Although it depends on the state, in most cases, companies can not be free of all liability when a rider or customer simply signs a waiver. An expert horseback riding attorney can help you prove negligence on the company’s part so you can get the financial return from your lawsuit. Liabilities may include:
- Using poor equipment
- Providing horses that have not been correctly trained
- Mistreating horses that cause them to act dangerously
- Allowing a rider to use an injured horse not fit to move
- Not maintaining or inspecting the trails before the ride
Proving liability in your horseback riding accident lawsuit can be difficult, but an attorney well-versed in these manners can help. Contact After Personal injury to get in touch with the lawyer you need. We can provide you with a professional who understands the litigation and documentation behind how these company’s run and what elements they are – and are not – responsible for. Call us today at (1) 888-854-8989 or contact us online.
