Motorists and horses

Please see the following update from Kent Police below:

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Hello,

The roads around the Peninsula, along with everywhere else, are a shared space and as such there needs to be understanding from all users. This not only takes the stress out of your day, as we all know driving can be stressful to say the least, it will make the roads safer for everyone.

A little mutual understanding will go a long way to making everyone’s journeys safer.

What should you do if you see a horse on the road?

If you see a horse on the road, then :

Slow down to a maximum of 10mph Be patient, don’t sound my horn or rev the engine Pass the horse wide and slow – at least two metres Drive slowly away

What else can you do?

Be prepared to stop if necessary. Look out for hand signals – stop or slow down if asked – this is for your own safety as it is others. If a rider or carriage driver is signalling to turn, wait patiently for them to complete their manoeuvre before continuing your journey. If you think the horse looks nervous – they may be stopped, look tense, “jogging” or moving sideways – please stop, turn off your engine and allow the horse to pass you. Please don’t start your engine or move off again until the horse is well clear of the rear end of the vehicle. If passing a horse from behind - heed the rider, handler or carriage driver’s signal. Only pass if safe to do so. If the horse looks nervous or the person in control of the horse is having difficulty - leave plenty of space between you and the horse and wait patiently for the horse to be under control, or for them to pull over to a safe place to pass. If a road is narrow and there is not enough room to pass safely as if passing another car, please approach slowly, or stop, and allow the equestrian to find a safe place off the road where you can pass safely. It may not always be possible for a rider or carriage driver to pull into a safe passing space. If you meet a horse head on, it can be easier for the driver to reverse to a safe passing space. If you are behind a horse, please wait patiently until there is a safe place to pass. Please be patient. Most equestrians will do their best to reassure their horses and will allow you to pass as soon as safe to do so. The safest place for the rider’s hands is on the reins, so they may only be able to nod their head as thanks to you –please be assured they are very grateful for your consideration. Look out for equestrian road signs – these signs indicate you are likely to encounter a horse on your journey.

Do you know how to pass a horse? https://www.bhs.org.uk/go-riding/riding-out-hacking/riding-on-roads/advice-for-motorists/#

Thanks

PC Richard JONES and PC Dave BRETT