Highway Code Shake-Up Could Make 10mph Limit Mandatory for Horse Safety
Drivers across the UK could soon face a legal requirement to slow to just 10mph when passing horses under proposed changes to the Highway Code. Currently, government rules state that motorists "should" pass horses at no more than 10mph and leave plenty of space, but this is advisory rather than compulsory.
MPs Push for Stronger Legal Wording
Politicians are now calling for the wording to be toughened so it becomes a legal requirement rather than mere advice. Lee Dillon, the Liberal Democrat MP for Newbury, emphasised this point during parliamentary discussions, stating: "The Highway Code could go further and rather than say should go at 10mph, actually it could say must."
This push comes amid growing concerns about road safety for horse riders and their animals. Dr Danny Chambers, MP for Winchester and a practising veterinary surgeon, highlighted the tragic consequences of current practices, noting: "As a horse vet, I have stitched up and euthanised more horses than I can remember through my career that have been hit by cars."
Real-Life Incidents Highlight Urgent Need
Terry Jermy, the Labour MP for South West Norfolk, shared a harrowing account in the House of Commons involving a constituent named Susie. He described how a driver attempted to pass on a single-track road, resulting in Susie's leg being trapped between the car and her horse. "She fell onto the vehicle and was subsequently dragged 20 metres along the road, suffering a head injury and a cracked elbow," Jermy reported.
In another case, Ms Rogers-Hartley lamented the disparity in outcomes after a collision: "The driver got an awareness course, I got a dead horse and thousands of pounds in vets' bills." These stories underscore the potential for severe injury and financial loss when drivers fail to exercise adequate caution.
Government Response and Future Steps
Labour Party Transport Minister Lilian Greenwood acknowledged these concerns, stating that the government recognises the issue and plans to collaborate with organisations like the British Horse Society. "I stress the importance of road safety around animals. I know how vital horses are to rural areas, such as West Berkshire, and I have been very sorry to hear about collisions involving horses and riders," she said.
The Department for Transport has already introduced a hierarchy of road users, which places greater responsibility on those who can cause the most harm in a collision. Recent Highway Code updates have strengthened guidance on safe passing distances and speeds when overtaking horse riders, but MPs argue that making the 10mph rule mandatory would provide clearer legal protection.
If implemented, this change would mark a significant shift in road safety policy, prioritising the welfare of vulnerable road users and potentially reducing accidents in rural and urban areas alike.
