Hellen v. Hellen

¶ 1. In this case, we are called upon to interpret and apply the equine immunity statute, Wis. Stat. § 895.481 (2011-12).1 The basic facts are that Ruth Hellen was injured as a result of contact with a horse named Whisper as Ruth held Whisper's lead rope and Ruth's daughter-in-law, Rebecca Hellen, prepared to ride Whisper. The circuit court concluded on summary judgment that the equine immunity statute applies to bar Ruth's claims against Rebecca and Whisper's owner, Jack Linney. Ruth appeals the resulting order and a subsequent order denying her motion for reconsideration.

¶ 2. The statute…