Motorists may need to refresh their knowledge of the Highway Code as campaigners push for key changes to address safety concerns regarding horse riders. A new petition to Parliament calls for revisions to clarify hand signals used by riders, aiming to eliminate what is described as a "dangerous confusion" in the current rules.
Petition Demands Clearer Guidance
The petition highlights an inconsistency between two sections of the Highway Code: Section 215 and the section on signals to other road users. It states: "Add a photographic page of horse riders' hand signals used while on the road to clarify urgently for safety reasons what is referred to in two sections of the Highway Code, namely section 215 and the one on Signals to other Road users, so that they align with what is taught to horse riders."
Horse riders are taught to use an extended arm moving up and down as a request for drivers to slow down. Section 215 advises drivers to "look out for horse riders' and horse drivers' signals and heed a request to slow down or stop." However, the petition argues that the Highway Code does not illustrate this signal, and elsewhere, a photograph of a motorcyclist incorrectly suggests the signal means the rider is slowing down. "Consistency is needed in the Highway Code and we believe the current advice could cause dangerous confusion," it adds.
Current Rule 215 Guidance
Rule 215 of the Highway Code offers specific advice for drivers encountering horse riders. It instructs drivers to "be particularly careful" when approaching, overtaking, passing, or moving away from horses. Key points include:
- Always pass wide and slowly.
- Slow down to a maximum of 10 mph when you see a horse on the road.
- Be patient; do not sound your horn or rev your engine.
- When safe, pass wide and slow, allowing at least two metres of space.
The rule also notes that horse riders are often children, so extra care is needed. Riders may ride in double file when escorting a young or inexperienced horse or rider. Drivers are reminded to "look out for horse riders' and horse drivers' signals and heed a request to slow down or stop." It emphasises that horses can be unpredictable and are flight animals that can move quickly if startled. The rule further states: "Remember there are three brains at work when you pass a horse; the rider's, the driver's and the horse's."
Consideration for Feral Ponies
The Highway Code also advises that feral or semi-feral ponies encountered in areas like the New Forest, Exmoor, or Dartmoor should be given the same consideration as ridden horses. The petition is available for public support on the Parliament website.
