4 February 2012

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HORSE Magazine



Staying safe on the roads

Road safety

Tuesday 17 February 2009

If you and your horse choose to venture further than your yard's sand school, the chances are you're going to have to ride on the road.

In the UK, it's pretty likely that at least part of your favourite hacking route is going consist of roadwork, whether that's merely crossing a quiet country lane, or having to go along several miles of busy 'A' roads.

Most riders have a story to tell where they personally have encountered dangerous driving. Some drivers show a complete lack of courtesy towards horses — speeding by with no regards to the safety of either horse or rider.

I have come across dozens of drivers who have absolutely zero common sense when driving near horses. They've whizzed by so close that I've been left amazed that my stirrup iron hasn't shattered a wing mirror… Or worse.

Thankfully, most drivers show the opposite of this behaviour. These road users brake the moment they see my horse Abbey and I trotting up the lane, and greet us with a nod and a smile.

So is it really drivers who are the main culprits in inconsiderate road use, or do we riders have to accept some of the responsibility?

For example, I've witnessed riders out on the road without high-vis clothing, making it difficult for other road users to see them.

I've also seen people riding two (or more) abreast down very narrow country lanes. They refuse to move over even when a car is directly behind them, waiting to pass.

And the thing we're most guilty of as riders is failing to say thank you even after a car has passed us slowly, leaving plenty of room.

Ungrateful attitudes like these could lead to drivers wondering why they bothered to show courtesy to riders in the first place — and stop them making the effort in future.

I doubt cars and horses will ever share the roads in perfect harmony. But next time you encounter a considerate driver, make sure you say thank you, whether that's by a wave, or a smile or nod if you can't take your hands off the reins.

It's a small gesture, but it could have big consequences for people's opinions of horse riders.


Jess Malone undertook a work experience placement at Horse magazine