'Too many horses are being killed and injured' on South West roads

The South West of England reports the highest level of incidents involving horses and vehicles in the UK - with most incidents in Devon.

The local authority is taking steps to address the issue.

Meanwhile figures show in Wiltshire there were 29 horses or ponies were injured on the county's roads over the last two years, fortunately there have been no deaths.

Alan Hiscox, Director of Safety at The British Horse Society said:

“Year on year we have witnessed an increase in the number of road incidents involving horses being reported to us."

"With 81% of the incidents reported to us having occurred due to vehicles passing too close it is evident that there is still a great need for better education on how to safely pass horses on the road."

"It is also deeply concerning that close to half of riders were subject to road rage. We all have a right to use the roads and no one should face abuse for exercising this right”

DRIVERS URGED TO SUPPORT THE DEAD SLOW CAMPAIGN

The dead Slow campaign says:

• Slow down to a maximum of 15mph

• Be patient – I won’t sound my horn or rev my engine

• Pass the horse wide and slow, (if safe to do so) at least a car’s width if possible

• Drive slowly away

• RIDERS:

• Meanwhile riders can do their bit to help improve road safety.

• Wear hi-viz, fluorescent and reflective clothing whenever you ride out, on-road or off-road, even in bright sunlight

• Wear protective headgear to current approved standards

• Be alert and give clear and decisive signals

• Acknowledge and return courtesy, a smile and a nod are enough if your hands are full

LISTEN

Below is our full interview with The British Horse Society Director of Safety Alan Hiscox:

• the british horse society
• horses injured on roads
• south west horses injured or killed by cars