£10,000 for injured rider
22 December 2010 – A rider received £10,000 compensation after he sustained injuries at work.
In May 2008, Johnathon Frazer of Malton, a member of the National Association of Stable Staff, had been instructed to ride out on a horse which he had reported the previous day was difficult to control. Normally a horse is properly exercised in the barn before going out on the gallops.
Given that this horse had recently returned from a holiday, and could be expected to be difficult to control, this pre-gallop exercise procedure was particularly important. It is alleged that the horse had not been properly exercised in the barn before Mr Frazer was instructed to ride the animal.
Mr Frazer was also concerned about the bridle with a pure rubber bit that he had been given, which added to his difficulties in controlling the horse. This is because a rubber does not exert as strong a pull on the horse’s muzzle as a metal bit.
As Mr Frazer rode the horse around the gallops and approached a corner, the horse refused to turn, colliding with a tree.
Mr Frazer suffered concussion and significant injuries to his shoulder with general lacerations and soft tissue damage to his face, body and upper limbs. His shoulder has required on-going surgery.
Mr Frazer’s employer, Tim Easterby, disputed liability and the allegations. Mr Frazer got in touch with NASS who referred him to their legal experts, Morrish Solicitors who pursued the claim. At first the insurers refused to pay compensation, but John Morrison at Morrish successfully negotiated a settlement of £10,000 without prejudice for Mr Frazer.
Speaking about the experience, Mr Frazer was keen to put it behind him and move on. “I have a job waiting for me in racing. A big thanks from me to NASS, Racing Welfare and Brian Ellison for all of their support, which is what has kept me going after every operation.”
Solicitor John Morrison, acting for Mr Frazer said “In situations where there is a dispute about liability, witness statements are very important and can make all the difference to the success of a claim.”
Ends
For further information please contact Morrish Solicitors Communications on 0113 297 9844.
