Pennsylvania Equine Activity Immunity Act

The Pennsylvania Equine Activities Liability Act, proposed by the Pennsylvania Equine Council, was signed into law December 23, 2005 and took effect February 23, 2006.

This Bill protects owners from lawsuits, where no party is at fault for injury or damages.  Passing this bill makes insurance more affordable to stable owners, easing the burden of costs on horse and stable owners.

This bill addresses individuals, businesses and groups that sponsor, organize, conduct or provide facilities for equine activity.  It uses "assumption of risk."  In simple terms, it means that the plaintiff knew that a particular activity was dangerous, therefore, bears all responsibility for any resulted injury.

The bill specifies that the stables MUST conspicuously post signs in two or more locations.  The signs read "You assume the risk of equine activities pursuant to Pennsylvania law."  Any stable, whether commercial or private, that does not post the sign as required, would not be covered under the law, nor are stables or individuals who are negligent.

This law does not stop lawsuits, but it does discourage frivolous lawsuits, making it simpler to dispose of actions early on in the legal process, as well as the expense and the stress of the parties that are sued.

The signs may be purchased at various locations throughout Pennsylvania or through the Pennsylvania Equine Council.