Here at EMO, as we observe the leaves changing color and falling from the trees, we actually see new beginnings, too. Many of our clients conclude their show seasons in October and early November, and while they are collecting ribbons and memories, some also purchase new horses for the 2015 competition season. 

Therefore, we thought it would be timely for our fall newsletter to outline what to look for when you're choosing an insurance agent. A good agent is one that will look after your best interests. 

A knowledgeable and conscientious agent should be able to walk you through the claims process with ease and understanding. He or she will also take the time to review your policy and give you options with pricing and/or coverages. This person should have experience not only with insurance but also know horses and the exposures associated with owning a horse farm.  

Excellent communication skills, along with an effective team to service your policy, rounds out the check list. At EMO, we know you have a choice for your insurance needs, and we want to thank you for choosing us!

E. Sue Bopp

Now that the show season is winding down, it's a popular time of year for clinics and other fall farm activities. And, if you offer your facility to another professional to use you might need additional insurance coverage over and above your existing policy.

Unfortunately, many people are unaware that their Equine Commercial General Liability Insurance policy (CGL) might not cover these additional activities.

CGL insurance is available to professionals who operate breeding, boarding, training, instructing, and/or who operate any eligible equine facility. 

This policy provides coverage for bodily injury or property damage to third parties arising from declared commercial equestrian activities. 

The policy can be extended to provide on-premises coverage for Independent Trainers or Instructors, while acting within the scope of their duties at your operation. In addition, Independent Instructors and Trainers should obtain their own CGL coverage for activities outside of your operation. 

Should a clinician need coverage for an event at your facility, the clinician can be added to your CGL policy as an Independent Trainer or Instructor prior to the start of the clinic. 

So, what this means is if a clinician is teaching a rider who falls and breaks her arm, your CGL policy would defend you in the event of a lawsuit by the participant. 

Just as a clarification, though, there is no third-party coverage for individuals who voluntarily participate in equine activities. Therefore, it's important to have all participants sign a waiver of liability prior to participating, for just these types of situations.

If you have a CGL policy, your spouse is automatically covered by the policy. If you have children who are of legal age, they need to be listed as an Additional Insured on your policy for coverage to apply unless they are employees of your operation. Employees are insured while working within their job description.

Only activities that are declared on the application and accepted by the company are eligible for coverage; undeclared activities are not covered.

So, before you send out invitations for your next clinic or equine-related activity, be sure to check with your Agent to make sure that your CGL policy covers all of your planned equine activities and events. Then, you'll be able to sit back and enjoy all of the festivities and educational opportunities knowing that you're properly covered.