What is the most common cause of injury while handling horses?

Being stepped on is recognized as one of the most common causes of injury when handling horses due to the sheer size and weight of these animals. When working in close proximity to horses, especially in confined spaces, there is a greater risk of being in a horse's path, particularly if the animal is startled or not properly handled. Horses do not always have a clear understanding of their surroundings, and when they shift or move suddenly, the handler may inadvertently place themselves in a position where they can be stepped on.

This risk is further amplified by the nature of a horse's flight response. If a horse feels threatened or frightened, its initial reaction might be to flee. In doing so, it could move quickly and without awareness of its handler's location. Being stepped on can lead to serious injuries due to the weight and powerful structure of a horse's leg. This makes awareness and proper handling techniques imperative for anyone working with horses to minimize such risk.

Other options involve different types of incidents that may cause injuries, but they are generally less frequent than the scenario of being stepped on by a moving horse, especially given that handlers often interact with horses in close quarters.