Incidents involving horses and riders on UK roads continue to persist at a shocking rate and it is evident that many drivers are still passing horses too quickly and closely. 

This is particularly concerning as we commemorate three years since significant changes were introduced into the Highway Code for passing equestrians safely. The key behavioural messages include slowing down to a maximum of 10mph and leaving at least two metres distance. 

As flight animals, a horse’s instinctive response to danger is to react and move quickly away. Even the most experienced and well-trained horse can be startled by unexpected movements or loud noises, like a car passing at great speed. 

As part of The British Horse Society’s Dead Slow road safety campaign, the equine charity continues to inform and guide road users about the behavioural messages in place for passing horses, along with the importance of driving carefully when passing and approaching horses. 

Check out The British Horse Society’s Dead Slow campaign to learn more: bhs.org.uk/deadslow  

National Statistics: 2024

Since November 2010: