Buying Horse Insurance Part 3

Insurance for Farm Owners
Farm owners have an entirely different set of considerations. They need not only protection for what they do, they also need protection for what employees and boarders might do to each other while on farm property.

General Farm Liability – This is a must for farm owners. It provides protection for the farm for what they and anyone else on their property does that could expose the farm to a liability claim.
Workmans' Compensation Insurance – Farm liability coverage doesn't cover employees of the farm who are injured. The farm requires workman's compensation insurance to cover these damages. Farm owners need to fully discuss with their insurance agent whether their trainers are "independent contractors" or "employees". Also, barter arrangements with boarders WILL turn the boarders into employees, so if the boarder ends up getting hurt, the farm owner could get a nasty shock if the boarder files a claim for workman's compensation. Most workman's compensation offices will fine a farm for the failure to have such insurance, and such fines can run into the thousands of dollars on top of paying for medical bills and even attorney's fees in some instances.
Care, Custody, and Control Insurance – This insurance is required if the farm boards horses. It compensates for damage to other horses on the premises, whereas the general liability policies only cover for damages to people.
Stallion Infertility Insurance – For horse breeding, you'll need Stallion Infertility Coverage, of which there are two kinds:
Accident, Sickness, or Disease (ASD) – This kind of insurance protects against permanent and total infertility that manifests itself during the policy periods.
First Season Infertility (FSI) – This insurance is cheaper and only covers the first season as its name implies.
The foaling process also allows for insurance for the new foal and for the mare.
Equine Shipping Insurance – Shipping of horses also requires insurance and horse carriers have their own insurance as well.

Getting properly insured need not be a worry if the issue is handled correctly. In the event of an accident, insurance can be a lifesaver. One of the most important aspects will be the insurance agent and the companies represented by the firm. You want someone that will take the time to assess your situation, explain all sides, answer your questions, and be there with you to work through the claim process if it's ever needed. The best way to find such an agent is to ask around to find others that have had to make claims and are happy with the service they received. Then, you still need to do your part and investigate the agents you're considering by educating yourself and asking lots of questions. If this is not something you feel you can do for yourself, either get an experienced friend or hire an equine attorney.

So shop around and get yourself the best deal you can for your situation. It may not prevent accidents, but it sure prevents a lot of heartache!