Horseback Riding Accident Lawyer in Detroit, Michigan

Like any type of sport or activity, there are risks and dangers involved whenever someone rides a horse. A substantial number of riders end up in emergency rooms each year as a result of horseback riding injuries. Although most of these injuries are considered an inherent risk of riding, in some cases they may be due to negligence of an equestrian facility or professional that may be held liable for the rider’s injuries. If you were injured in a horseback riding accident, and someone else is at fault, you have the right to explore your legal options, and, if possible, file an injury claim against the owner of the horse. Marko Law can help you with your case. Our law firm offers legal services for riders who have suffered financially due to a horse accident. To schedule an initial consultation, contact our law office today at 313-777-7LAW.

Liability For Horse Riding Accidents Under Michigan Law

In general, horse riding is considered a personal risk. Even at an equestrian facility, the owner and professionals working at the facility are immune from liability of injury to riders except under specific exceptions. Some exceptions listed where an equestrian facility or professional may be held liable for injuries include:

• Provided the equipment or tack, and knew or should have known that the equipment or tack was faulty, and the equipment or tack was faulty to the extent that it caused the injury.
• Provided the equine and failed to make reasonable and prudent efforts to determine the ability of the participant to engage safely in the equine activity
• Commits an act or omission that constitutes willful or wanton disregard for the safety of the participant (resulting in injury)
• The facility was in lawful possession and control of the land or facilities upon which the participant sustained injuries because of a dangerous latent condition that was known to the equine activity sponsor, equine professional, or person and for which warning signs were not conspicuously posted.

While there is a certain amount of risk that is assumed by the rider, in Michigan if the equestrian facility or professional causes an injury through negligence, they can be held liable for any injuries that are caused by that negligence.

Common Horse Riding Accident Injuries

Horse riding is considered one of the most dangerous activities, generally landing in the top 20 high-risk sports. Some of the most common injuries that occur from horse riding include:

Traumatic Brain Injuries.

The most common cause of death from horse riding is a brain injury. Head injuries account for an estimated 18% of all horse riding injuries. A study in 2007 by the CDC showed that horse riding was the number one cause of brain injury by any single recreational activity.

Spinal and Back Injuries.

Many riders become paralyzed from the spinal cord injury when thrown from a horse. Other injuries can occur as a result of a rider running into an object.

Fractures and Soft Tissue Injuries.

Fractured bones, contusions, lacerations, and soft tissue damage are the most common types of injuries from horse riding.

Dismount Injuries.

One out of three horse rider injuries happens when a rider is dismounted. Many are caused by a horse kicking or stepping on the rider. Horse riding injuries can be extremely serious, even fatal, often leaving the victim with permanent disabilities, especially in the brain and spinal injuries. If the injury was caused by the negligence of an equestrian professional, they can be held liable for the injury.

Recovering Damages in a Horseback Riding Accident Case

The value of your case depends on several factors, such as the nature of the accident, who was at fault, and the extent of your economic and noneconomic losses. You may be eligible to claim the following in your case:

Medical Expenses

Medical expenses may include ER visits, hospital stays, surgical procedures, medication, physical therapy, or long-term care.

Lost Wages

If you have been out of work and missed payments due to your accident, you may be able to claim your lost wages. In addition, you may also be eligible for disability if you are permanently injured or disfigured.

Noneconomic Damages

An insurance company or court may also award you damages from pain & suffering, loss of quality of life, loss of consortium, or emotional distress. Marko Law will work on your behalf to get the maximum compensation possible from the insurance company. You should not have to pay for someone else’s negligence.

Statute of Limitations for Horse Accidents in Michigan

In Michigan, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims is just three years from the date that the accident occurred or three years from the date you are diagnosed with an injury relating to the accident you were involved in. Once the three years have passed, the at-fault party may no longer be legally liable for your damages. You may not be able to file a claim or a lawsuit against the party or their insurance company. Therefore, it is important that you waste no time in filing your claim. A horseback riding accident attorney from Marko Law can help you submit all the paperwork and make sure that you meet all deadlines and regulations.

Hire Marko Law to Represent You Today

When you are ready to move forward with your case, we are here to help you every step of the way. Marko Law provides comprehensive legal services for victims of horseback riding accidents in Michigan. Contact us today to get started with your claim. We can answer your questions, address your concerns, and work on your behalf to take on the insurance companies. To schedule a free case evaluation, call us at 313-777-7LAW.