SAFETY GUIDE
Emergency & Accident Guide
What to do if something goes wrong during a rental, purchase, or haul.
First Priorities
Ensure Safety
- Turn on hazard lights
- Move to a safe location if possible
- Call 911 if injuries, blocked roads, or fire
Secure the Animals
- Keep horses calm — speak softly
- Do not unload unless necessary
- Prepare halters and lead ropes if needed
Contact Appropriate Services
- Contact emergency services as needed
- Notify the trailer owner through Howdy messaging
- Contact roadside assistance and vet if needed
Helpful Contacts
Emergency Services
911
Injuries, fire, blocked road
Platform Messaging
Howdy Messaging
Document communication between parties
Trailer Owner
Via Howdy Messaging
Notify through the platform
Roadside Assistance
AAA / Insurance
Towing & breakdown
Veterinarian
Your Emergency Contact
Animal injury or distress
Document Everything
Thorough documentation benefits everyone involved. Start as soon as it is safe to do so.
What to Photograph
- All trailer damage from every angle
- Your vehicle and hitch area
- Other vehicles involved
- License plates of all vehicles
- VIN of trailer if visible
- Road conditions, skid marks, debris
- Traffic signs or signals nearby
- Weather conditions
- Animals if injury suspected
What Information to Collect
- Names and contact info of other drivers
- Insurance info from all parties
- License plate numbers
- Make, model, year of all vehicles
- Witness names and contact info
- Officer name and badge number
- Police report number (if filed)
- Location (address or mile marker)
- Time, date, and weather conditions
Important Reminders
- Do not admit fault at the scene
- Stick to facts when talking to police
- Be polite and cooperative
- Avoid discussing details with other drivers
- Do not sign anything except police reports
This information is provided as general guidance only and may not apply to every situation.
Recommended Actions
Every situation is different. Consult your insurance provider and local authorities when appropriate.
Contact the Trailer Owner Immediately
Document Through Howdy
Contact Your Insurance
Arrange Repair or Retrieval
Security Deposit
Open Communication Helps
In most situations, clear and honest communication between parties leads to the best outcomes. Howdy's messaging tools are designed to help keep that communication organized and documented.
Common Scenarios
Insurance
Renters
- Contact your insurer to discuss whether and how to file a claim
- Ask your insurer whether your policy covers damage or liability involving a rented trailer
- Provide all documentation to your insurer
- Keep the trailer owner updated; contact Howdy support for platform-related issues
Owners
- File a claim with your trailer insurance
- Provide rental agreement and renter info to your insurer
- Get a damage assessment and repair estimates
- Handle any proposed deposit deduction under the agreement and available payment process
Note: Coverage varies by provider and policy. Always verify your coverage before a rental.
Documenting incidents promptly and keeping communication organized through Howdy can support any follow-up claims or resolutions.
Howdy is a marketplace platform and does not act as an insurer, transportation operator, or emergency response provider.
Safer Towing Starts Before the Trip
Most incidents are preventable with proper preparation.
Pre-Trip Inspection
Check tires, lights, brakes, and hitch before every departure.
Know Your Limits
Never tow beyond your vehicle's rated capacity.
Drive Defensively
Allow extra stopping distance, take turns slowly, and reduce speed.
Practice First
If you're new to towing, practice backing and turning before your trip.
Proper Loading
Balance weight, secure cargo, and never overload the trailer.
Use Extended Mirrors
Proper mirrors are essential for safe lane changes and visibility.
Weather Awareness
Avoid towing in severe weather whenever possible.
Rest Stops
Stop every 2–3 hours to check on horses and inspect equipment.
Emergency Kit Checklist
Keep these items in your tow vehicle before every trip.
Prepared Horse Owners Travel Better
Planning ahead, maintaining equipment, and keeping clear documentation can help reduce stress during unexpected situations.
This guide is provided for general informational purposes only. Howdy is a marketplace platform and does not provide emergency services, insurance coverage, or transportation management.