SEIB Welcomes Court Ruling On Mare's Value After Accident

South Essex Insurance Brokers managing director Barry Fehler has today welcomed a ruling by a Gloucester County Court judge which has awarded damages for the psychological damage a horse suffered in a road accident.

Judge Paul Singleton accepted evidence that a six-year-old mare, which was being trained for showjumping and dressage, had lost value after a car collided with her on the road. Now, he was told, the horse could cope with quiet country lanes but had problems with busier roads. Her value had dropped from between £3,250 and £2,750 to about £2,200.

"The ruling serves as a warning to drivers, but also enforces advice giving to owners insuring their horses that they should look closely at options which give them access to legal advice and help," said Mr Fehler.

"How many riders have been in a similar situations after a road accident, but have not had the resources to pursue the driver through the courts?"

Only about 55 per cent of South Essex clients take up the option of buying into a scheme which gives them a 24-hour helpline providing advice and assistance with legal costs. It is an opportunity pioneered by the company, where for a premium as low as £12, they also get 24-hour access to emergency veterinary help.