It’s often not clear how you should approach driving near horses, and to get past them in a way that keeps both you and the riders safe. How big a gap should you leave when passing them, how fast should you go, should you even pass them at all?
The Highway Code provides official guidance but doesn’t illustrate it so you can understand how to apply it. So, in this guide we’re going to take a look at what the Highway Code says and go through some scenarios that should help you better understand what to do.
What the Highway Code says about passing horses
Here, in full, is what the Highway Code says on passing vulnerable road users: ‘Be particularly careful of horse riders and horse-drawn vehicles, especially when approaching, overtaking, passing or moving away.
‘Always pass wide and slowly. When you see a horse on the road, you should slow down to a maximum of 10mph. Be patient, do not sound your horn or rev your engine. When safe to do so, pass wide and slow, allowing at least 2 metres of space.’
Now let’s consider how you might apply that guidance with some scenarios that can crop up in the real world.
Some scenarios to consider
You’re driving along a country road, keeping to the posted national speed limit. You round a corner and see two horse riders a short distance ahead on your side of the road. There are three vehicles approaching from the opposite direction.
In this scenario, you should slow down and follow behind the horses at a distance until the road ahead is clear enough for you to be able to pass slowly, giving them a wide berth. Conscientious riders often wave you past when they think it’s safe to do so, but don’t go if you’re not convinced. If the road is too narrow, again follow the horse at a distance until the road widens, or they give way. Be aware there may be a single-file line of horses, or horses being led by a walker, so it may take some time to get past.
If horses are coming in the opposite direction, slow down as much as you can and move over as far left as possible. If the road is too narrow, stop and wait for them to pass. Whatever the case, don’t sound the horn or rev the engine as you pass, keep an eye on the horses in case they spook and stop if they do. Wait until you’re well past the horses before accelerating away gently.
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