Equine law is generally defined as the body of law (statutes, court opinions) that governs the ownership, buying, selling, riding, breeding, racing, training, handling, insuring, and boarding of horses—and membership and participation in related organizations and activities. For example, contracts often define these transactions, relationships, and activities, and statutes often limit the personal injury liability of owners and operators of equine-related events and activities.
In Nevada, equine law encompasses various legal aspects related to horses, including ownership, sale, riding, breeding, racing, training, and boarding. Contracts are commonly used to outline the terms and conditions of these activities and transactions. Nevada, like many other states, has enacted specific statutes that limit the liability of equine professionals and event operators for injuries to participants, provided that certain conditions are met. This is often referred to as an 'equine activity statute.' In Nevada, NRS 41.519 provides that an equine sponsor, equine professional, or any other person is not liable for an injury to or the death of a participant resulting from the inherent risks of equine activities, with certain exceptions. It is important for those involved in equine activities to understand these laws and to ensure that they have proper waivers and notices in place to benefit from the statutory protections.