Horse Riders
It is not unusual to see horses on the roads of North Yorkshire. However, many other road users do not understand the risk that they pose to the horse and rider.
The Highway Code was updated on 29 January 2022. The key changes relating to Horse riders are:
- Vehicles should now pass horses at no more than 10mph and must allow at least 2 metres of space when passing
- Hierarchy of road users – pedestrians are listed as the most vulnerable road users, followed by horses and cyclists. This new rule highlights that, irrespective of method of transport, those who can do the greatest harm have the greatest responsibility to reduce the danger or threat they may pose to others.
Riders should protect themselves and their horses by ensuring they are wearing high-visibility items at all times of day throughout the year.
Horses are flight animals and can be easily startled. Riders are often children or young people. We encourage all other road users to pass horses and riders carefully on the roads
- Slow down to a maximum speed of 10mph
- Be patient, don’t sound your horn or rev your engine
- Pass the horse wide and slow, at least 2 metres if safe to do so
- Drive slowly away
For more information visit The British Horse Society at British Horse Society: Equestrian Charity & Membership | The British Horse Society
