Did you know that more than 3,000 people are injured every year while horse riding? Injuries to the head, neck, back and ribs are common. About one in ten of these types of accidents require the rider to be hospitalized with serious injuries. This could include broken bones or even a spinal cord injury.
Horse riding is a passion for many people. But anyone who has been on a horse knows that it is a risky activity. Because horses are strong animals and the rider sits high on the animal’s back, you can sustain serious injuries in the event of a fall. In addition, horses can bolt if they are startled, or throw a serious kick.
It is no surprise that the rider can sustain injury. But who is liable for the damage in that case? That depends, as always, on the circumstances of the accident.
Liability
If you ride a horse that belongs to someone else and you sustain personal injury, Article 6:179 of the Dutch Civil Code applies. It stipulates that the owner of an animal is liable for all damage that someone suffers as a result of the animal’s behavior. So if a horse falls, the owner of the animal is obliged to compensate you for the damage.
But because you voluntarily ride the horse and you know the risks of the animal, you will be reimbursed for at least half of the personal injury. Based on fairness, this can be adjusted to, for example, 75% or even 100%. If you are still learning to ride a horse, there is a good chance that 100% of the damage will be reimbursed. If a horse kicks you, there is nothing you can do about the accident. That is why in such a case your personal injury will also be fully reimbursed.
Recoverable damage
All financial consequences of the accident are eligible for compensation, such as lost income and damages. Especially when there is a disability, the damage can be quite expensive. The costs of aids and facilities can also be recovered from the horse owner.
Legal help
Have you suffered injury while horse riding? It is then wise to hire a personal injury lawyer. Your lawyer will list all damage items and claim them on your behalf from the liable party. You can contact MCJ Advocatuur for this. Have you suffered injury in an accident? Please feel free to contact us.