Two horseriders in Northumberland have received over £30,000 in
settlement of a case against the British Cycling Federation. Cyclists
taking part in a race frightened a horse being ridden along the road
with the result that both horse and rider were injured. The horse was
subsequently put down
The cyclists were sued for negligence by (among other things):
* Cycling too fast
* Failing to avoid frightening the horse
* Failing to give way to the horse
* Failing to give adequate warning of their presence on the road
* Failing to warn adjacent landowners and the public about the
race
The British Horse Society is calling for all organisers of cycle races
to publicise their events more widely so that horse riders can choose to
take another route on that occasion, and race marshals should take care
to warn riders of the approach of the cyclists, and to protect other
road users.
The case highlights the need for cyclists to be aware of horses and
riders on the road. A horse can easily be startled by a cyclist
suddenly overtaking at speed, as happened in this case with tragic
consequences. A simple warning of the cyclist's approach, such as a
bell, a whistle or even a shout, is enough to alert horse and rider.
Horse riders and cyclists can happily share routes, as long as each is
considerate to the needs of the other.
Matthew Knight of Knights Solicitors of Tunbridge Wells, who acted for
the claimants, said "This case cost the rider her health and the horse
its life. It could have been avoided if proper warnings had been
given."
Press enquiries to Nichola Gregory,
BHS Press Officer 01926 707707c
British Horse Society
Stoneleigh Deer Park
Kenilworth
Warwickshire CV8 2XZ
Nichola Gregory
BHS Press Officer
