COVID-19 FAQs For Equestrians
In these unprecedented times, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Shearwater Insurance team have compiled a list of Frequently Asked Questions, in relation to key insurance topics that may be affecting the equestrian community.
Shearwater are proud to be Insurance Partners for British Dressage, as such we have included a number of FAQs specific to British Dressage members.
Can I reduce or cancel my horsebox insurance while we are unable to compete?
Depending on the nature of your policy you may be able to remove business usage temporarily. Unfortunately, there are no options for fire and theft only policies for horseboxes.
Whilst we understand that horse owners are looking to reduce costs, we do hope that the close down will only be temporary, and we encourage owners to consider whether they will need to use their lorry in the event of an emergency.
Will my British Dressage Personal Accident policy still cover me if I have a riding accident during the Government’s lockdown?
The Personal Accident cover that Shearwater provides to British Dressage members offers cover whilst the member is engaged in a horse related activity, during the course of your membership. It is not restricted to accidents whilst taking part in British Dressage Affiliated events or training.
If the Government restricts the riding of horses, yet you decide to ride anyway, then cover would not be available in the event of an accident.
However, until the Government specifies that riding is forbidden cover will continue as normal.
A copy of the British Dressage Members Insurance Key Facts leaflet can be found here.
Would my horse still be covered, should I choose to ride him, for an accident out hacking during the COVID-19 lockdown?
All of our horse and rider policies are still providing effective cover. We recommend that our customers closely follow Government guidance and react accordingly should they decide to restrict horse riding.
Will my horse insurance be null and void if the horse hasn’t had its flu jab, due to COVID-19, and then contracts flu and requires a vet?
Policy wording states that horses need up to date vaccinations for flu to be covered and vets’ fees. As veterinary guidelines are constantly changing this would be reviewed on a case by case basis.
Does my business insurance/venue/yard insurance cover me for loss of income if I’ve been forced to close?
Standard commercial insurance policies provide cover against a wide range of risks, including damage caused by fire, flood, losses by theft, accidents involving employees and the need for temporary trading premises in certain circumstances.
Only a very small number of businesses have the cover that specifically provides for contingency business interruption arising from notifiable diseases, such as COVID-19, where their premises have been contaminated. This is not a common addition to commercial policies.
Does business interruption insurance provide cover for businesses who are not able to operate due to the effects of COVID-19?
Standard business insurance policies are designed to ensure standard risks and are therefore unlikely to cover global pandemics like COVID-19. This will include forced closure by the authorities.
Some may have chosen to purchase cover that provides for business interruption arising from notifiable or infectious diseases. The costs associated with cover for these unusual risks are often prohibitive to businesses.
Businesses who are concerned about the impacts of COVID-19 should check the scope of their cover, and check with their insurance broker.
If I have to self-isolate, can I pause my car insurance?
It is a legal requirement to have valid car insurance unless you register your vehicle off the road and apply for a SORN.
Different insurers have different processes for these situations. We recommend speaking to your insurer or broker about individual circumstances and the options that may be available to you.