Credit: ThinkstockUSRider would like to remind equestrians of a few tire strategies to make travel less stressful. To minimize the time spent on the side of the road awaiting assistance, USRider urges horse owners to carry two mounted spare tires.
While most of us regularly carry one spare tire at all times, if you’re traveling with horses it’s better (and safer) to carry two. In the first place, the side of the road is a dangerous place to be; and, when you have horses on board your stress level can reach peak heights. As a conscientious horse owner, you want to minimize that stress. Statistics indicate that tire failure–especially on horse trailers–is the most common cause of roadside disablements.
If there should be a second disablement, it will take much longer to remedy since a second tire will have to be located and delivered to the scene. This second breakdown could lead to more worry, additional stress and loss of valuable travel time which could have been prevented if a second spare was available.
USRider can deliver services in these situations, but it is sometimes difficult to procure the correct tire and find a service provider with the ability to mount a tire on the side of the highway. Horse owners can greatly enhance their safety and the safety of their horses by doubling up on spare tires.
Another USRider recommendation is that a qualified mechanic change the tire. If, in an emergency, a non-qualified individual does change the tire, the vehicle should be taken to a qualified mechanic as soon as possible to ensure that the tire was properly torqued.
When purchasing a new trailer, it would be advisable to purchase a second spare mount. For existing trailers, visit a reputable trailer dealer to discuss options for mounting a second spare.
USRider–in its 15th year of operation–is the only company to provide emergency roadside assistance for horse owners and is owned by the parent company of Stable Management.
Through the Equestrian Motor Plan, USRider provides nationwide roadside assistance and towing services along with other travel-related benefits to its Members. The plan includes standard features such as flat-tire repair, battery assistance, lockout services, and roadside repairs for tow vehicles and trailers with horses, plus towing up to 100 miles. As an additional service, USRider maintains a national database that includes emergency stabling, veterinary and farrier referrals. For more information about the USRider Equestrian Motor Plan, visit www.usrider.org online or call 800-844-1409. For additional safety and travel tips, visit the Equine Travel Safety Area on the USRider website at www.usrider.org.
