Liability and Horse Riding: Discover Your Options

Questioner

I work with problem horses (self-employed). If a 17 year old boy helps me ride clients' horses, am I liable if something happens to him? And if so, can drawing up a contract prevent this?

Lawyer

In principle, you are liable for people who help you in a business capacity. Even if it involves volunteer work. You cannot exclude this with a contract. You may already have liability insurance with respect to your clients. If so, you can easily extend this insurance. If you do not have liability insurance, I advise you to take it out to eliminate risks.

Questioner

Hello, Thank you for the answer. I don't have liability insurance yet. Simply because I can't do that yet. In September I will have my diploma and can do it. I hesitated whether to have a contract drawn up or to wait until September. Seems wise to wait then.

Lawyer

I advise you to at least ask an insurance advisor about the options. Unfortunately, you cannot 'contract out' your liability.