Archive article
Originally published in 2019. This article is retained for historical reference. For the current framework, consult our animal law guides and 2026 briefing.
Horse owners who leave their animal to third parties are liable for the behaviour of the animal. The BGH ruled that the damages resulting from a riding accident are to be borne by the horse owner if the rider was unsettled by the behaviour of the animal.
Bundesgerichtshofs, 06.07.1999, Aktenzeichen: VI ZR 170/98
Liability issues in the event of a riding accident