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Why Bull Riders Need Specialized Insurance Coverage

Josh Cotner
January 15, 2026
2 min read

Why Bull Riders Need Specialized Insurance Coverage

Bull riding is often called "the most dangerous 8 seconds in sports" - and for good reason. With injury rates exceeding 32 per 1,000 rides, bull riders face risks that standard insurance policies simply aren't designed to cover.

The Unique Risks of Bull Riding

Professional and amateur bull riders face a variety of injuries that are uncommon in other sports:

- Concussions and traumatic brain injuries from falls and impacts

  • Spinal cord injuries from being thrown or stepped on
  • Broken bones - especially in the face, ribs, and limbs
  • Internal organ damage from horn strikes or crushing
  • Shoulder and hip dislocations from the violent motion

    Why Standard Health Insurance Falls Short

    Most standard health insurance policies have significant gaps when it comes to rodeo injuries:

    1. Exclusion clauses - Many policies specifically exclude injuries from "high-risk activities" including bull riding

2. Coverage limits - Emergency helicopter evacuations and specialized trauma care can easily exceed policy limits 3. No income protection - If you can't ride, you can't earn. Standard policies don't cover lost income 4. Rehabilitation limitations - Rodeo athletes often need specialized rehabilitation that exceeds standard coverage

What Proper Bull Rider Insurance Includes

A comprehensive bull rider insurance policy should include:

Medical Coverage

  • Emergency medical expenses with no "extreme sport" exclusions
  • Air ambulance and emergency evacuation
  • Hospitalization and surgery coverage
  • Physical therapy and rehabilitation

    Disability Benefits

  • Short-term disability for temporary injuries
  • Long-term disability for career-ending injuries
  • Accidental death and dismemberment coverage

    Equipment Protection

  • Bull rope and rigging coverage
  • Travel equipment protection
  • Trailer and towing vehicle coverage

    Coverage for Every Level

    Whether you're a weekend warrior competing at local jackpots or a professional riding PBR events, having proper coverage gives you peace of mind to focus on your ride.

    At 8 Second Insurance, we understand the rodeo lifestyle because we've been insuring western athletes for nearly two decades. Our policies are specifically designed for the unique risks bull riders face.

    Ready to protect your career? Get a quote today and ride with confidence.