Horse riding safety
Motorists and horse riders both have a right to use the road.
They also share a responsibility to consider each others'
needs.
When you are riding on a road, make sure you stay safe:
- wear protective headgear to current approved standards
- give clear and decisive signals
- read the appropriate section of the Highway Code
- keep away from busy roads
- ride on the left hand side of the road
- wear a high-visibility hat band or cap cover and a
high-visibility waistcoat or tabard
- use reflective leg bands on your horse. Because they are
constantly moving they attract drivers' attention. Ideally, use
them on all four legs; if using two, put them on the outside legs
nearest the road.
- use either a tail guard or fluorescent rug at the rear of the
horse as this is the most vulnerable area
- don't ride more than two abreast
- avoid riding after dark or in foggy conditions
- don't take a mounted group of more than eight riders on the
road.
Note: Horse owners: Loose horses can cause
major collisions, so keep fields and fences properly maintained and
keep gates locked.