Breaking down with horses on board is a worrying thought. Knowing the steps you need to take will help take some of the stress out of the situation.
Step 1:
Your safety is paramount. If possible, get your vehicle to a safe place such as a verge, the hard shoulder, or a gateway. Ensure you are away from any bends or blind summits.
Step 2:
Turn on your hazard lights. If it is safe to do so, place a hazard triangle on the side of the road and if necessary turn on your sidelights. You may also need to inform the police and Highways Agency on 999/112.
Step 3:
If you have reflective wear put this on. You may also need to get out of your vehicle and move away from it, this is essential if you are on a motorway.
Step 4:
Once you are in a safe place you should call the 24-hour Rescue Control Centre on 0800 389 6354 or 01277 235702.
If you have hearing/speech difficulties, you can use the SMS text messaging service on +44 (0) 7537 404890.
Provide the following information to the Rescue Control Centre –
- The policy number and person named as the Policyholder
- The phone number which you are calling from
- Vehicle details such as registration number, make, model etc.
- The location of the broken down vehicle including road number or names and landmarks. You can also download the ‘what 3 words’ app to be able to provide your exact location
- The number of horses being transported
Step 5:
Remain with the vehicle until a rescue vehicle arrives.
Do not consider removing your horse from the box or trailer unless it is safe to do so. You must not remove them if you are on a motorway or dual carriageway until the police have been informed and have taken appropriate action.
If it is safe to do so (and you are not on a motorway where you must put your safety first and wait in a safe place away from the vehicle) make sure the horses are comfortable. Provide them with extra hay and water as necessary (it is always essential to carry extra supplies in case of a breakdown), you should also ensure there is adequate ventilation and that the horses are not too hot or too cold.
Before you head out and about, make sure you have read our top tips for hitting the road to make sure you are prepared for the possibility of a breakdown.
Step 6:
Submit your claim as soon as possible and within 14 days of the occurrence. Remember to keep all invoices, receipts, and any other documents that may be relevant to your claim. You can notify us in writing to:
KBIS Breakdown, Axis Court, North Station Road, Colchester, Essex, CO1 1UXPlease note the above has been written for those with a KBIS breakdown policy in place.
Find out more about our Breakdown Cover, available for trailers for just £132.08 and will even cover the vehicle when you are not towing. Horsebox breakdown cover is available from just £156.53. Did you know we can also provide Trailer and Horsebox Insurance? For all your equestrian insurance needs, call our helpful team on 0345 230 2323.