Accident of local horseback rider provides a solemn reminder about horse crossing etiquette

BECKLEY, WV (WVNS) — The recent tragedy of a horseback rider in our area has prompted questions about driving etiquette when horses are around.

On July 7, 2024, a horseback rider named Robin Massey died due to an accident in Glen White, West Virginia. Massey was struck by a truck while on her horse.

Eric Sherburne, a family friend of Massey’s said, “She was not riding in the road. She was crossing the road. Once you cross the road from Church Street over across [West Virginia Route] 54, there’s a big wide shoulder over on that side and that’s why they cross there. Plus, there’s a good line of sight. She always looked out for all her friends when they rode. So, she was out in front, and she was out making sure that everybody would get across safely and an accident happened.”

Eric Sherburne told 59News the area she crossed was not even 1,000 feet from her home. Sherburne says Massey was out riding that day with five of her friends when everything happened.

This incident is still under investigation by Raleigh County Sheriff’s Office.

A rule in place in many locations that aims to prevent accidents like this is the right of way for horses and their riders.

Horses can weigh 1,000 pounds or more when fully grown, meaning there is a lot of weight and power behind these animals.

Sherburne explained that, because of that, scaring a horse by getting too close with a vehicle can be dangerous and the outcome can be unpredictable.

“Their first instinct is to either run away or fight when they’re spooked when something scares them, and in most cases, [their reaction is to] run away,” said Sherburne. “If you’re riding beside the road or if you’re going to cross the road and your horse is acting up, get up and walk it across. If somebody doesn’t slow down and your horse spins and jumps out in traffic, it’s just a bad situation on all three parts.”

Additionally, horseback riders should wear some kind of light or reflective gear when riding at night to help people know they are there. Horseback riders can also put lights around their horses to ensure they are as noticeable as possible.

Massey’s family is also starting the Ride for Robin Foundation in honor of her humanitarian efforts and nature during her life. They want to continue her work through her passion for taking care of animals.

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