The Importance of Insurance Protection For Horse Owners

Florida is home to the third largest population of horses in the United States. With such a large equine industry that includes multifaceted roles, including horse owners, breeders, trainers, and riders, to businesses that include boarding and training facilities, competition sites, and veterinarians, there are situations in which a tragic event involves a dispute. However, in a number of these cases, someone has equine insurance.  

Equine insurance can give horse owners peace of mind because it can provide financial protection if an unforeseen event occurs.  

Equine insurance can also provide protection when it comes to horse mortality (similar to a life insurance policy) in the event that an owner’s horse passes away due to natural causes, accidents, and/or illnesses.  

An equine insurance policy can also protect against unexpected veterinary costs, including major medical costs—equine veterinarian care can become very expensive, especially in an emergency situation.  

Further, “loss of use”—if the horse can no longer compete or be ridden due to injury, disease, or death—can also be covered under an equine insurance policy.

A policy can also protect someone from liability in the event that someone’s horse causes damage or injury to someone else. Equine insurance can provide coverage for worst-case scenarios.

Protection For Equine Businesses

In some situations, a liability policy can also protect someone from a lawsuit if someone else gets hurt on an owner’s property, such as a boarding or training facility or a property used for equine shows and events.   

Such a policy can also cover losses or damages for equine-related equipment or property, such as barns, trailers, and tacks.  

Protection For Those Who Care for Horses

Equine insurance can also be used in the event that a horse is harmed under another’s care. There is separate, add-on coverage that can protect someone from being legally responsible when another person’s horse is harmed while under someone else’s care, custody, and control (CCC). This coverage is typically used if someone is boarding, training, or handling other people’s horses, including horse hauling. This protection provides financial coverage for the death or injury of a horse so that someone is not financially liable if a horse is harmed under their care and custody.  

Like the process involved in other types of insurance policies, you will want to report your claim as soon as possible to your equine insurance claims line or agent.  

What Equine Insurance Policy Should I purchase?

It is important to note that like any insurance policy, there are many different types of insurance protection for horse owners available. Anyone who is looking to purchase an equine insurance policy will want to closely review the details and coverage available to make an informed, careful decision. Because equine insurance can be complex, you will want to consult with a Miami, Fort Lauderdale, or West Palm Beach equine attorney to help review your policy so that you are protecting yourself from potential legal issues. Clayton Trial Lawyers can provide you with the experience, expertise, and elite representation for all of your equine legal needs.