Most road users and motorists have been there before when they’re travelling along a road and suddenly encounter a horse and rider or a group of horse riders.
And can often be faced with an immediate conundrum of what to do best in those situations to maintain the safety of everyone in that vicinity.
The British Horse Society (BHS) and Road Safety Wales reported 147 road incidents involving horses in Wales during 2025. This sits alongside a wider UK figure of 2,810 total incidents and 59 horse fatalities were reported in the same year.
Because the BHS estimates that only 1 in 10 road incidents involving horses is officially logged, the actual frequency of these traffic encounters is suspected to be significantly higher.
So, what can drivers do to ensure the safety of all road users when faced with a situation of encountering a horse rider(s) on their travels?
The list of rules maybe more than you think…
Rules 147, 163 & 167 of the Highway Code contain the most accurate and up to date information where road users can best refresh their knowledge about what is best to do in such events.
Councillor David A Bithell, Lead Member for Environment said: – “the safety of all road users is always a priority in any circumstance, but particularly when ensuring the safety of horses and their riders.
“It almost goes without saying that horses can be unpredictable animals at the best of times, even more so when being approached by fast or careless vehicles which can cause catastrophic consequences for all involved.
“So I’d urge anyone to take a look at the associated rules within the Highway Code, to refresh their knowledge or educate themselves on the guidance around safe road use in the event of encountering horse riders on their journey.
“Let’s do all that we can to get these statistics down and make our roads as safe as they can be for everyone.”
