The British Horse Society applauds Appeal Court ruling on
rider liability
The UK’s largest horse charity The British Horse Society
yesterday (Tuesday, June 27) backed a ruling by Appeal Court
judges.
The BHS praised Britain’s top judge, the Lord Chief
Justice, Lord Phillips, who was sitting with Lord Justice
Buxton and Lord Justice Sedley, at the Appeal Court in London.
The judges quashed a Newcastle County Court ruling that a
rider involved in an accident with a motorist was responsible
for the actions of that horse as a matter of strict liability
– with no legal defence against damage caused by that
horse.
The BHS’s Safety Senior Executive Sheila Hardy said:
“This is a landmark victory for all riders, particularly
those who have no option but to ride on the road. Careful
and responsible riders should not live in fear of being sued
after events arising from circumstances beyond their control.
“The BHS applauds the Appeal Court judges' ruling for
its wisdom and sense. There should be room for all on the
roads provided that mutual courtesy and consideration is given.”
|
