MOTORISTS URGED TO ‘HOLD THEIR HORSES!’

Equestrian groups explain their reasons for ‘road riding’ and how ensuring safety is everyone’s responsibility.

BY TERRI PERRIN

As the weather warms up and signs of summer appear across the province, you may notice more than wildflowers along our rural public roads. Horses and riders, eager to get out and enjoy some exercise, will become a more common sight. The arrival of nicer weather is both a cause for celebration and for concern because ‘road riding’ must be done with safety as the number one priority.

“Consideration for the environment, increasing fuel costs, and lack of access to a truck and trailer have made road riding a favorable choice for many,” explains Sarah Allison, recreation director for Horse Council British Columbia (HCBC). “Riders — and drivers of horse-drawn carriages — may need to be on the road to get from one farm to another, from a stable to a trailhead, or because the road itself forms one section of an established equestrian trail.”

With the urbanization of our society as a whole, many road users have had little exposure to horses and other livestock they may encounter in the country. While horseback riders do play a role in ensuring their own safety — by staying on the side of the road, moving slowly, and wearing appropriate safety gear and hivisibility clothing — other road users have responsibilities, too.

RIDERS’ RESPONSIBILITIES

Responsibility for safe road access also falls upon equestrians. The ‘Three C’s of Trail Riding Etiquette: Common Sense, Courtesy, and Communication’ should also be practiced on public roads. Riders are urged to be aware of their surroundings, control their speed, and look ahead, especially on corners and hills. In most cases riders should travel in the same direction as the traffic because, according to traffic laws, they are considered to be no different than a vehicle or bicycle. Motorists, however, should recognize that in some cases this is not possible. Steep ditches, narrow shoulders, slippery footing, or an object or activity on one side of the road – such as a barking dog or construction work – may require the rider to guide their mount to the opposite side of the road to ensure their safety.

WHAT MOTORISTS NEED TO KNOW

The Alberta Traffic Safety Act provides the answers for motorists and, in general, if you’re riding or driving horses, you’re considered a vehicle. Conversely, if you’re leading your horse, whether under saddle, in harness, or in hand, you’ve become a pedestrian.

The Use of Highway & Rules of the Road Regulation, Alta. Reg. 304/2002 has guidelines for both pedestrians and vehicles on public roads.

The most important thing for road users to be aware of when they encounter livestock or horses being ridden, driven, led, or loaded into trailers on or near the road is to please, SLOW DOWN! Pass slow, wide, and carefully; share the road, and think safety first.

Drivers should never speed past, honk their horns or shout at horseback riders. Cyclists and joggers should speak up so the horse recognizes them as a person, not a predator. If the horse appears stressed and is giving the rider a hard time – STOP your vehicle (if safe to do so), put on your emergency flashers, and give the rider the chance to regain control of their horse and get themselves to a safe area.

“Whether you are driving a vehicle, riding a motorcycle or bicycle, or jogging, be aware that horses are big, powerful ‘flight’ animals,” adds Brian Marriott, president of Back Country Horsemen of British Columbia. “If startled by a fast-moving motor vehicle, or silently speeding cyclists or joggers coming up behind them, a horse or mule may spook. They could then buck, rear, or go from a standstill to a full-speed gallop in a split second – forwards, backward or sideways! Motorists who don’t respect horse owners’ rights to share the road put horses, riders, themselves, and other motorists at risk of serious injury, even death.”

Let’s all work together this summer to share our roads, be safe, be seen, and be aware.

The AEF recently brought in ‘Caution Horses’ trailer decals, as well as reflective harnesses that fit over any jacket or shirt and are adjustable to fit most. For more information visit store.albertaequestrian.com/