Countryside drives or walks can quickly turn into a difficult experience if you encounter a loose horse on the road. Understanding how to handle this situation safely is crucial, say the experts at the British Horse Society.
Why might a horse be loose on the road?
Horses are flight animals which means they react quickly to a perceived threat. The slightest noise or disturbance could trigger them to escape from their field, owner or stable, and become loose.
This could then lead to the frightened horse bolting into traffic, causing collisions, or potentially kicking out if approached too quickly. Moreover, horses unfamiliar with roads can become disoriented, increasing the chance of them wandering into hazardous areas.
What to do if you see a loose horse
If you encounter a loose horse while driving, here are some steps you should follow:
1. Stay Calm and Alert: Slow down gradually and turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers. Do not honk your horn or make sudden movements, as these can startle the horse.
2. Assess the Situation: Before leaving your vehicle assess any danger or risk to yourself or your vehicle. Look around for any obvious signs of where the horse may have come from, such as nearby fields or a broken fence. If the horse appears injured or agitated, maintain a safe distance and avoid making sudden movements.
3. Do Not Approach the Horse Directly: Horses are flight animals and can move very quickly. Approaching them directly can frighten them and cause them to run. Instead, try to observe their behaviour from a safe distance.
4. Call for Help: Contact local authorities immediately. Dial 999 for emergency assistance if the horse poses an immediate danger to traffic. You can also call the non-emergency police number, 101, or a local veterinary surgery.
5. Keep Other Road Users Informed: If it is safe to do so, signal to other drivers to slow down. Use hand signals to indicate the presence of the horse ahead, but do not put yourself in any danger.
6. If Safe, Contain the Horse: If you are experienced with horses and it is safe, you may try to contain the horse by gently guiding it towards a safe area, away from the road. Use calming, low voices and slow movements. If you have a lead rope or similar equipment, and you are confident in its use, this may be an option.
Meeting grazing horses in the countryside
If you are walking along a footpath or bridleway that crosses land where horses are grazing, give them a lot of space and try and avoid splitting the herd. Do not try and get close as horses are unpredictable and act very quickly and accidents can easily happen if they feel threatened.
How to reduce the risk of accidents involving loose horses
To reduce the risk of accidents involving loose horses, here are some precautionary measures drivers can take:
• Drive Slowly in Rural Areas: Be extra cautious in areas where horses are common. Slow down and be prepared to stop quickly if necessary. Here is more information on how to pass horses safely while out in the countryside.
• Stay Informed: Pay attention to horse warning signs indicating the presence of horses or equestrian routes. These signs are placed in areas where bridleways cross roads or horses are ridden on the road.
• Educate Yourself: Familiarise yourself with basic horse behaviour. Understanding that horses can be unpredictable and easily startled can help you react appropriately.
Encountering a horse on the road can be daunting, but knowing how to handle a situation involving loose horses can prevent accidents and save lives.
By following these steps, together we can help to keep everyone safe on our roads.
Saddle up for a journey into the equestrian world
Ever wondered if horse riding is a sport? Or are you curious about the ins and outs of equine ownership? If so, check out our feature about how much it costs to own a horse.
And, if you're looking for present ideas, don't miss our handpicked selection of best gifts for horse lovers.
About the British Horse Society
The British Horse Society is an equine charity that promotes and advances the education, training and safety of the public in all matters relating to the horse. With the support of their volunteers and members, the BHS works hard to make a positive impact on the lives of all horses and those who love them.
To learn more about the BHS and how they can help you to get started on your equine journey, visit bhs.org.uk
