The Road Safety Authority (RSA), An Garda Síochána, Horse Sport Ireland (HSI) & Horse Racing Ireland (HRI) have launched a horse road safety appeal to make road users aware of the potential dangers of horses on the road and how to deal with these dangers.
They have offered the following tips for road users and riders when sharing the roads:
For Riders
- Always make sure that drivers can see you at all times regardless of weather conditions.
- Wear proper protective gear, high-visibility clothing and put high-visibility equipment on your horse and give clear hand signals.
- Remain on the left-hand side of the road when both riding your horse and leading in hand. When leading your horse, position yourself between the horse being led and the traffic so that you have maximum control over the horse.
- Give clear and accurate hand signals to let other road users know your intentions.
- Remain alert, attentive, and observant. Remember the Life Saver Look at junctions – it could save your life.
For Road Users
- Be alert when approaching riding schools, racing yards or places where horses are likely to appear.
- Take special care when overtaking horses or horse-drawn vehicles. This is particularly relevant at junctions where motorists are advised to keep a safe distance from horses and riders.
- Pass by slowly, driving wide of the horse and ride, while obeying the rider’/s hand signals
- Don’t use your air brakes, horn or lights in a way that might startle or blind a horse.
- Cyclists should approach cautiously, ensuring that the horse rider can see or hear you approaching.
Source: An Garda Síochána
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