Keeping horses safe on our roads is a critical issue that affects every equestrian in the UK. We’re dedicated to reducing the number of tragic incidents involving horses and riders through a proactive approach to education and road safety advocacy.
It’s important for riders to take precautions while out hacking, such as wearing high-visibility clothing and using correct hand signals. However, the responsibility for safer roads is shared, and drivers must also understand how to behave around horses to prevent accidents. Through our education and outreach efforts, we aim to raise awareness among all road users, helping drivers to understand the importance of responsible behaviour around horses.
One significant aspect of our work is making sure road users are informed of and follow the Highway Code. As part of our Dead Slow campaign, we achieved a major milestone in 2022 by successfully incorporating BHS guidance into the Highway Code. According to these updates, drivers should pass ridden horses or horse-drawn vehicles at a maximum speed of 10 mph and leave at least two metres (6.5 feet) of space when overtaking. This change was a powerful step forward for equestrian safety and we continue to make as many drivers as possible aware of these changes.
We’re committed to educating road users by directly engaging with them at public events across the country. Over the past year, we’ve attended Car Fest, The Camping and Caravan Show and more than 40 Safer Driver, Safer Rider and Safer Horses events to speak with the public. Additionally, we have addressed key stakeholders in the road safety world at events such as the Road Safety GB Conference and the UKROEd National Conference.
These face-to-face interactions play a crucial role in building understanding and awareness. Direct communication with drivers and other road users is highly effective in encouraging safer behaviours and adherence to the Highway Code. Through these interactions, we aim to foster greater understanding and empathy, creating a safer road environment for horses and riders alike.