Equine means characteristics of a Horse, so Equine law is what related to horse and all the areas involving horse dealings. These areas covers buying and selling of horses, related disputes, Horse riding injuries, compensation claims, equestrian properties and business, veterinary malpractice and all related issues. Earlier Equine trade is just done with a handshake but these days it becomes very important to have a written agreement while dealing in horse business, which includes all details of the dealings as well as sales details, money issues and any future disputes having chance to arise.
According to an estimate 4.3 million people take part in horse related activities every year, it shows the need and importance of Equine law and this number will definitely increase after the 2012 London Olympics.
While signing a contract for the purchase of a horse, always consider some important points in it so that you won’t face any legal issues. According to Equine Activity Liability Act “Ride at your own risk” that means if you do not have something with you in writing, even law cannot help for being cheated. So a well written and proper liability release can help you come under the lawsuit. Some main points which should be considered while signing a release like both included parties, risk covers, waiver provides and rider’s previous information. The applicability of the release may differ according to state law.
One important aspect of Equine law is Health and safety requirements of a horse business. Anyone in horse business should be familiar to Health and safety legislation. It is very important to keep yourself up to date about health and safety which is a general requirement for any formal inspection from the concern department. Any instance of non-compliance may results in heavy fine. So some basic things should be considered:-
Any minor accident or injury either to some staff member or visiting public should be treated with first-aid. Keep the record in business accident book.
Any major accident or some certain types of accidents and injuries like Breaks and Fractures, Dislocation of hips and shoulder joint should be reported to Health and Safety Executive.
Employee liability insurance is required in this business just like any other business so that protection can be provided to the employees.
After the detail of the things which a businessman should consider to follow Equity law now we will check the options available for the people who buy. Purchasing a horse is just like buying any other good, so any dispute about the quality of the horse or any unfair deal will be treated under sale of goods law. So whenever you have to buy some horse first of all get detailed knowledge of Equine law.
Importance of Equine law is unmatched for the people dealing in the industry.