More than 50,000 equestrian helmets were recalled because they failed to pass impact tests, meaning that they might not protect a rider’s head and brain from a life-threatening injury.
What You Can Do & How We Can Help
The Schmidt Firm, PLLC is currently accepting equestrian helmet induced injury cases in all 50 states. If you or somebody you know was injured when a horse riding helmet broke or failed to protect your head, you should contact our lawyers immediately for a free case consultation. Please use the form below to contact our Product Liability Litigation Group or call toll free 24 hours a day at (866) 920-0753.
Around 50,000 Equestrian Helmets Recalled for Head Injury Risk
In February 2023, English Riding Supply LLC issued a recall for more than 49,300 Ovation Protégé Equestrian Helmets that may not prevent head injuries.
Was Anyone Injured?
No injuries were reported in the U.S. or Canada as of January 2023, but the recalled helmets “fail to meet the impact requirements of the ASTM F1163-15 standard for this type of helmet, posing an impact injury hazard to riders who fall,” according to the recall notice.
Where Were They Sold?
The recalled Ovation Protégé helmets were sold nationwide from January 2021 through December 2022 at tack shops, English equestrian specialty stores, and online.
Another 5,270 helmets were also recalled in Canada.
What Should I Do?
English Riding Supply is asking consumers to immediately stop using the recalled helmets and return them to the store where they were purchased for a free replacement Ovation Deluxe Schooler helmet.
Consumers can also contact English Riding Supply for a $60 refund by visiting https://www.ovationriding.com/ProtegeRecall/.
Safety Standard for Horse Riding Helmet
Equestrian sports are inherently dangerous because horseback riders can fall from the height of a horse at high speed. Just hitting the ground can be deadly, depending on how the rider falls, but there is also a risk of being kicked by the horse’s hoof or falling on a rock.
Because of this, equestrian helmets must meet specific design specifications and standards to receive safety certifications. One of the most widely-used standards is ASTM F1163-15.
Test Requirements for Equestrian Helmets
For a helmet to meet the requirements of ASTM F1163-15, one test it must undergo is an impact with an “equestrian hazard anvil.” This is a sharp, heavy weight that is used to test the strength of the helmet on the sides, top, and back. It is supposed to simulate the impact of falling on a sharp rock or being hit in the head by a horse’s hoof.
What is the Risk?
Equestrian helmets that fail to protect a rider’s head could result in a devastating horseback riding accident. Some of the risks include:
- Concussions
- Traumatic brain injury
- Permanent brain damage
- Bleeding in the brain (hematoma)
- Skull fracture
- Unconsciousness
- Coma
- Paralysis
- Death
Do I have an Equestrian Helmet Lawsuit?
The Schmidt Firm, PLLC is currently accepting equestrian helmet induced injury cases in all 50 states. If you or somebody you know was injured when a horse riding helmet broke or failed to protect your head, you should contact our lawyers immediately for a free case consultation. Please use the form below to contact our Product Liability Litigation Group or call toll free 24 hours a day at (866) 920-0753.
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