Equine road safety

Fresh focus on equine road safety following rise in horse fatalities

Recent figures have revealed a disturbing rise in the rate of horse fatalities on British roads, highlighting a pressing safety issue for equestrians and motorists.

According to the British Horse Society (BHS), 66 horses were killed and 96 injured in road accidents in 2023, marking the highest rate of equine fatalities since 2018. Additionally, three riders lost their lives and 94 were injured[1].

This increase comes despite the implementation of new Highway Code guidelines in 2022, which aimed to improve safety for horses and riders after 46 equine deaths were reported in 2021.

The updated Highway Code clearly states: “Always pass wide and slowly. When you see a horse on a road, you should slow down to a maximum of 10mph. Be patient, do not sound your horn or rev your engine. When safe to do so, pass wide and slow, allowing at least two metres of space[2].”

Yet, despite this, in 2023 alone 3,383 incidents were reported, with a staggering 85% involving vehicles passing too closely or too quickly[3].

Horses are naturally flighty animals, instinctively reacting to danger by moving away quickly. Even the most experienced and well-trained horses can be startled by sudden movements or loud noises, such as a fast-moving car.

If proof were needed, recently several Army horses made headlines on two separate occasions when they were startled, causing them to unseat their riders and charge for miles through the streets of London. These incidents highlighted how even highly trained horses can be affected by unexpected noises and events[4].

Taking precautionary measures

The latest BHS figures are truly shocking and only go to show the continued importance of raising awareness and understanding about horse behaviour and safety on our roads – and of taking crucial steps to mitigate danger.

There are several safety measures that can be adopted by those riding on or near roads.

• Riding with a partner can significantly enhance safety by making riders more visible and providing mutual support in case of an emergency.
• Visibility is crucial, and wearing hi-vis clothing can greatly reduce the risk of accidents – it can also give critical extra time for motorists to react.
• Considering weather conditions is also important. Poor weather can reduce visibility and increase the risk of slipping. On sunny days, glare might also affect a driver’s ability to see a rider clearly. Ask yourself if you really need to go out in such conditions.
• Hat cameras can be an effective tool for documenting rides, providing evidence in the event of an incident and deterring dangerous driving behaviour.
• Technology has advanced to offer significant safety benefits, such as the What Three Words app. This app divides the world into 3m x 3m squares, each with a unique three-word address, allowing emergency services to locate a rider quickly and accurately in case of an emergency.
• Riders should always carry a phone and inform someone of their route and expected return time.
• Comprehensive insurance coverage, including third-party liability, can provide financial protection and peace of mind in the event of an accident.

Implementing these measures not only enhances rider safety and reduces the likelihood of road incidents, but also fosters a safer environment for both equestrians and motorists. By adhering to these guidelines and promoting mutual respect and understanding between drivers and riders, hopefully we can progressively achieve the goal of reducing horse-related road accidents.

For more information on equine insurance and third-party liability coverage, visit Howden Group.