Each year, technology seems to advance in every way possible. From smart phones that have the ability to track our eating habits and daily exercise routines to the seamless work of the drone, a device that can film videos or capture images hundreds of feet above the earth.
Avoiding lockouts when traveling with horses
Getting stranded is stressful enough when it’s just you. Add a trailer with a few horses and the situation could become a big problem.
© 2014 by Barbara Sheridan
We are now in the presence of vehicles that do not require a key, but simply allow you to place your hand on the door handle and the vehicle will unlock by detecting a key fob in your pocket. This advance in technology can both be beneficial and a cause for bad luck if this is not something you are used to.
At USRider, we know that being stranded with a lockout can be an inconvenience at best. While we are there for our members when this problem arises, being in this situation can be dangerous especially when traveling with horses.
While most owners have a spare key for their vehicle, it is usually at home, possibly far away. USRider recommends installing a hide-a-key in your vehicle. The most common places to put a hide-a-key are your bumper and wheel well. If you do purchase a hide-a-key, try to think of a spot on your car so it will not land in the wrong hands. There are some hide-a-keys that are made to fit your trailer hitch and inside your gas cap.
Getting stranded is stressful enough when it’s just you. Add a trailer with a few horses and the situation could become a big problem; however, a hide-a-key on your trailer could come in handy. Some individuals place a hide-a-key near hay racks on the top of their trailers. If you are crafty, you can install a safe on your trailer that requires an access code.
Back in 2007, reports arose of cell phones scrambling electronic keys creating hefty bills for car owners to purchase new fobs. There have been no recent reports since then. However, new problems have surfaced with newer key fobs that do not require handling.
Newer vehicles now allow drivers to enter and start their vehicles with no key in sight. It is a small fob that is scanned by the vehicle. There are not so many issues with lockouts, but more so drivers will forget the vehicle is on and walk away, returning to a vehicle with an empty gas tank or worse.
About USRider
USRider – in its 13th year of operation – is the only company to provide emergency roadside assistance for horse owners. 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.