You are hauling down the interstate. A semi cuts you off. You jackknife. The trailer flips. Your horse is trapped inside, screaming. The fire department cuts him out. He has severe lacerations and fractures. Your truck insurance covers the truck. Your trailer insurance covers the trailer. Who pays for the horse?
Key Takeaways
- Auto Insurance Denies the Horse: Auto policies cover “Property Damage” to others, not your own property (the horse) inside the trailer.
- Major Medical applies: Your horse’s Major Medical policy applies here for the vet bills.
- Limited Mortality: If the horse dies in the crash, “Full Mortality” or “Limited Mortality (Fire, Lightning, Transport)” covers the value.
- USRider: This is AAA for horse people. They will coordinate finding a barn or vet for the horse while you deal with the truck.
The “Why” (The Trap): “Care, Custody, and Control”
If you are hauling someone else’s horse for money, you need “Care, Custody, and Control” (CCC) insurance. Standard liability excludes property in your care.
For your own horse, you rely on the horse’s specific medical/mortality policy.
The Investigation: The Roadside Nightmare
I looked at how claims handle transport crashes.
- The Vet Bill: The emergency vet on the side of the road charges a premium. Major Medical covers this.
- The Recovery: If you need a specialized “horse ambulance” or sling to lift the horse, Major Medical should cover it as “Reasonable and Customary” care, but specific limits apply.
USRider vs. AAA
- AAA: Will tow your truck. Will leave your horse trailer on the side of the road.
- USRider: Will tow the truck and trailer (with horses inside if safe, or coordinate transport).
Comparison Table: Crash Coverage
| Item | Auto Policy | Horse Policy | Roadside Assistance |
| Truck Damage | Covered | N/A | Towing |
| Trailer Damage | Covered (if added) | N/A | Towing |
| Horse Vet Bills | Excluded | Covered (Medical) | Referral Service |
| Horse Death | Excluded | Covered (Mortality) | N/A |
[IMAGE: Photo of a horse trailer on its side with emergency crews working]
Step-by-Step Action Plan
- Get USRider: Do not haul without it.
- Carry Insurance Papers: Have a copy of the horse’s insurance policy in the truck. You might need to prove coverage to the emergency vet before they treat.
- Video the Scene: If the accident wasn’t your fault, the other driver’s liability insurance should pay for the horse. Document everything.
- Check Trailer Floor: Most injuries happen because the horse scrambles. Ensure your mats are non-slip.
FAQ
Does insurance cover the towing of the trailer?
Only if you have “Trailer Service” on your roadside plan or specific trailer insurance endorsements.