What should you do if you fall while horseback riding alone?
If you fall while horseback riding alone, stay calm, check yourself for injuries, move away from the horse if safe, and call for help or activate an emergency alert on your phone right away. Tell someone your planned route and expected return time before you ride, so they know to check on you if you don't return. A live location link that a trusted Guardian can follow in any browser, plus a one-tap SOS shortcut to call 911, means help can find you fast even in a remote area.
Step by step
01Check yourself and move to safety
Assess for injuries while staying alert to the horse's position. Move away from the horse to a safe spot if you can do so without worsening an injury.
02Alert someone immediately
Call 911 if you can, or use your phone's emergency SOS feature. If you set up a live location link with a Guardian beforehand, they will see you've stopped moving and can call for help on your behalf.
03Tell someone your plan before you ride
Share your intended route, how long you'll be out, and when you expect to return. Give a trusted person a live location link they can open in any browser so they can monitor your ride in real time.
04Stay put and signal if possible
Once you've alerted help, remain in one place so rescuers can locate you. Wave or make noise to draw attention if other riders or people are nearby.
Related questions
What if I'm hurt too badly to call for help?
This is why sharing a live location link with a Guardian matters. They will notice when you stop moving for an unusual amount of time and can call 911 for you. Set up a check-in plan before you ride, so someone knows your expected return time.
Should I try to catch my horse after a fall?
Only if you are certain you have no serious injuries and the horse is calm and nearby. If you are hurt or unsure, stay put in a safe location and focus on alerting help. Your safety comes first.
More safety answers, or see the safety guides.