After Losing ‘Horse of a Lifetime,’ Injured Equestrian Highlights Safety Concerns for Riders

Horse riders are known to be among the most vulnerable of road users, prone to accidents and near misses. In 2022, there were over 3000 equine-related accidents reported in the UK. While humans are recorded to encounter injuries, horses stand rather vulnerable to death with their stature. For equestrian Sarah Cunningham, one incident turned into the numbers above as she faced the most devastating of situations.

As an equestrian, Sarah Cunningham has shared a keen enthusiasm and love towards her equine, Rubrics. But in a heartbreaking accident in 2022, Sarah stood to lose her 13-year-old companion under devastating circumstances. Her recount of the events over recent developments of the case stands as a reminder of the safety concerns horse riders adorn.

An upsetting case of loss

In December 2022, equestrian Sarah Cunningham and her 13-year-old former racehorse, Rubrics met with an accident involving a 4×4. Multiple broken ribs and fractures obliged the Handsacre native to be in a wheelchair for 12 weeks. As for Rubrics, the equine had to be put down following the road collision. But the most heartbreaking situation of all is deemed to be Sarah’s inability to bid the horse goodbye due to her injuries; reports Horse & Hound.

Following an accident, the uninsured driver pleaded guilty to the occurrences and walked to the hearing held in December 2023. He was sentenced to 120 hours of community service and 18 months of community order. A £300 fine and 12 months ban from driving followed next in decision. While the penalties have been set in place, it still remains a struggle for the equestrian to keep on.

A struggle general to equestrian enthusiasts

“I am still haunted by the collision and losing Rubrics so suddenly due to someone else’s actions. It was devastating. He was my horse of a lifetime and I really struggle to imagine myself ever getting back to riding without him,” Sarah told H&H. The equestrian revealed that focusing on recovery has diverted her attention from returning to her usual activities as an athlete. In avoidance of such cases, the Highway Code in Britain has been put into action but to no avail. According to the British Horse Society, there have been 68 equine deaths, 125 injuries, and 139 injuries to riders as Jan 2023.

Also Read: Olympic Medalist Equestrian Ulla Salzgeber Mourns the Loss of Grand Prix Star Herzruf’s Erbe

While the numbers and details prove to be devastating, a thought towards the issue seems to be the right step. “I hope that by sharing my story, I can urge road users to be safe and take care at all times. I wouldn’t wish what I’ve been through on anyone,” the equestrian remarks. Sarah will currently be looked after by her lawyer at Irwin Mitchell and will receive any support necessary.

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