The law surrounding about taking horses onto the public carriageway can be read in the Highway Code.
Some of the things horse riders MUST do:
- Children under the age of 14 must wear a helmet which complies with regulations. It must be fastened securely.
- You must not take a horse onto a footpath or pavement, and you should not take a horse onto a cycle track. Use a bridleway where possible. Equestrian crossings may be provided for horse riders to cross the road and you should use these where available
Some of the things horse riders SHOULD do:
- Adults should wear protective headgear to the current approved standard, BS EN1384, PASO15 or ASTM F1163. Make sure that it is correctly fitted and secured.
- Give clear and accurate signals.
- Thank motorists who are courteous to you and be courteous to other road users.
- Don’t take a mounted group of eight or more on the roads.
- Do not ride more than two abreast on the road.
- You should wear boots or shoes with hard soles and heels
- Horse riders should wear light-coloured or fluorescent clothing in daylight
- You should wear reflective clothing if you have to ride at night or in poor visibility
- Before you take a horse on to a road, you should ensure all tack fits well and is in good condition
- If you can’t control the horse don’t take them out.
- Always ride with other, less nervous horses if you think that your horse will be nervous of traffic.
- Never ride a horse without both a saddle and bridle.
There may be times when it is necessary to ride on roads and it is important that this is made as safe as possible for the sake of rider, horse and drivers.
Riders should be aware of the Highway Code and avoid main or busy roads if possible. The rider should always remain in control. Horses are unpredictable and riding with a loose rein can easily lead to an accident if the animal is startled.
