A recent legal case where a dog walker was injured by cattle on a public footpath highlights the responsibilities of landowners, including horse owners, to ensure public safety when their land is accessed by the public. A farmer was fined over £5,000 for breaching the Health and Safety at Work Act after the incident. Legal experts emphasize that horse owners must assess risks when turning out horses in fields crossed by public rights of way, as they have a duty of care to walkers and other users. If a horse causes injury, owners could face claims if it is proven the horse exhibited dangerous characteristics known to the owner.

The British Horse Society and legal advisors advise owners to carefully consider which horses are kept in such fields, recommending against stallions due to their potentially aggressive behavior. Maintaining safe access routes with secure gates and fencing is also crucial to prevent accidents and escapes. Public liability insurance is strongly recommended to cover potential claims, which can be substantial in cases of serious injury. Warning signs may help inform the public but do not absolve owners of liability, though they might indicate assumed risk by the public. Overall, owners must proactively manage risks to keep public footpaths safe.