After the experience I had a couple of weeks ago riding on the Spanish roads I feel that some awareness needs to be spread around to avoid more unnecessary road accidents. Here a simple copy and paste from the campaign Horse Sense THINK.
Please read and be aware, sometimes we have no option but to use the roads.
Some viewers might find the images a little bit strong.
Advice for motorists
- Slow down and be ready to stop if necessary
- Look out for riders’ signals to slow down or stop
- Watch out for sudden movements, horses can be easily frightened and unpredictable
- Don’t sound your horn or rev your engine
- Pass wide and slow when overtaking; giving the horse plenty of room. Don’t accelerate rapidly once you have passed them.
- On roundabouts, horse riders will keep to the left within the roundabout until reaching their exit, when they will signal left. They will normally signal right only when approaching exits they don’t intend to use
Advice for horse riders
- Always display fluorescent/reflective clothing on both horse and rider whatever the weather or light conditions
- If at all avoidable, don’t ride in failing light, fog or darkness. Avoid icy or snowy roads
- If riding a horse that is not used to roads, ask a rider with a horse who is experienced and calm to accompany you
- Never take a mounted group of more than eight horses on the road
- If riding two abreast, move into single file as soon as it is safe for the motorist to overtake. Don’t ride more than two abreast on the road
- Always cross major crossings in a group, rather than trickling across one by one
- Leave details of your intended route and estimated time of return with a responsible person
Thanks a lot and please share !!