NYC Horse and Carriage Controversy

On January 2, 2006 an accident occurred between an empty horse-drawn carriage and a station wagon in New York City. The accident was caused when the horse suddenly became spooked and darted into traffic. The carriage driver¹ was injured and hospitalized. The horse was also injured and then euthanized. This accident has become the fire for animal lovers and activists alike to attempt to ban horse-drawn carriages in New York City. The photos² of the accident are shocking and are enough to make most people consider at least more strict regulations on the current industry.

I believe that there should be a complete ban on horse-drawn carriages, especially in a congested city such as New York City. I was a part of the class group that was in support of a ban of horse-drawn carriages. Half of the group consisted of people that wanted a complete ban, which I supported, and the other half was willing to compromise, which would allow carriages only in Central Park³ at certain times and with strict regulations on working conditions. The view to keep horse-drawn carriages in the park is shared by activists as printed in a New York Daily News article and most view it as the most viable option to make any changes at all.

I believe a ban should be implemented due to many incriminating facts about the horse-drawn carriage industry and personal moral beliefs. To begin, 80% of all horse and carriage accidents occur when the horse is spooked. The high concentration of vehicles, humans, and general noise can easily do this to a horse at any time, especially in New York City. Drivers of carriages are poorly trained and are able to obtain a license quite easily⁴. The health of the horses is also a huge concern. Most carriage horses only remain employed for four years. This is due to the working conditions and especially being exposed to noxious fumes from vehicles. Most other major cities have already taken the step to ban horse-drawn carriages and New York City should follow suit. The economy will not fail due to a removal of these carriages. This is the classic case of economy versus environment, which is the health environment of horses. We must take a step in the direction of doing what is right rather than what will make our wallets larger.

Those opposed to a complete ban have referred to an economic decline, loss of tradition, and loss of an environmentally-friendly source of transportation as reasons to keep the horse-drawn carriages in New York. As expected, these are well supported issues in America, but in this case the benefits of a ban far outweigh the costs.

Many citizens have been trying to pass a ban⁵ and there is an ability on the internet to sign a petition.