A recent collision between two horse-drawn carriages in Central Park has reignited debates over the safety and ethics of the carriage industry in New York City. Both drivers were hospitalized with minor injuries, while the horses involved were not seriously harmed and returned to work shortly after. This incident follows a previous case in 2022 where a horse named Ryder collapsed and later died, prompting significant public outcry and a petition led by animal advocacy groups to ban horse-drawn carriages altogether.
Advocacy organizations like NYCLASS are using this latest crash to bolster their calls for a citywide ban, arguing that the industry poses risks to both animals and humans. They highlight the inherent skittishness of horses, which can lead to dangerous situations, and emphasize that a majority of New Yorkers support the ban. Proposed legislation, known as Ryder’s Law, aims to end the carriage industry and ensure that horses are placed in safe sanctuaries.
The Animal Legal Defense Fund has also been active in this movement, advocating for stronger anti-cruelty laws and the humane treatment of horses. The tragic history of horse-related incidents in urban settings has fueled these efforts, with notable public figures joining the cause to end what they describe as a cruel and reckless industry.