It’s that time of year when we are all rushing around, but I would ask you to be aware of other road users, particularly horse riders.
Why Horse Riders Use the Roads
As a rider, I can assure you all that the last thing we want to do is ride on the road, especially in these darker afternoons, but sometimes we have to use the road to get to a field or bridleway. Horses are not permitted to use a footpath or cycle track.
Understanding Horse Behaviour on Roads
Most horses are used to traffic and not concerned by cars (although large lorries, etc., may concern them); however, horses are creatures of flight, so the silly sausages will jump onto an oncoming car to avoid the very scary sweet paper in the hedge. This can cause considerable damage and injury to all.
What Riders Do to Stay Safe
As riders, we do the best we can to control our beast, which can weigh anything between 300 and 1,000 kg, and we do try to wear high-vis equipment so you can see us. Some of us have even submitted to new technology and wear a head cam.
How You Can Help: Pass Wide and Slow
My plea is for you to pass wide and slow, giving at least 2 metres of space, reduce your speed to 10mph, and please do not sound your horn.
Many thanks and safe driving.
Christine McNeish, Partner at Berlad Graham, and Head of Family
