Six-figure sum secured for horse rider told she may never return to riding

Our client, G, had been riding for over 20 years when her accident occurred. Employed as a Head Girl and Rider, she was riding and training a two-year-old colt on the morning of the accident. Two other members of staff were also riding in the gallops at the same time.

G was cantering towards a bend in the gallops track, near the gate to the yard, when two other riders moved alongside her on the inside. Next to the gallops was a field of fillies calling out to other horses, and it was at this point that the horse G was riding veered to the left, spun around, left the track, bolted and galloped away.

G was thrown from the horse and landed awkwardly, suffering significant injuries including bilateral ankle fractures, a mild adjustment disorder, as well as the risk that she could develop chronic symptoms of arthritis/osteoarthritis. Unfortunately for her as well, G was told it’s highly unlikely she’ll return to the same employment she had before the accident.

Liability was denied by her employer’s insurer, however our specialist team eventually secured £325,000 in compensation for G.