Thames Valley Police crack down on motorists overtaking horse riders
A police operation has been targeting motorists who ignore Highway Code rules on overtaking horse riders, putting the safety of animals and riders at risk.
Operation Close Pass uses plain-clothes police officers on horses (equipped with video cameras) to look out for motorists who do not leave the required space when passing.
If motorists are spotted not leaving the appropriate space, then the police will intervene and take action.
The Highway Code says that you should give horse riders at least as much room as you would when overtaking a car.
If you're passing a horse rider, it's recommended that you pass at no more than 10mph and leave at least 2 metres.
When driving near horse riders:
- On narrow parts of a road, horse riders may ride in the centre of the lane. Allow them to do so for their own safety and so they can be seen.
- Don't scare horses by sounding your horn, revving your engine or accelerating hard once you have overtaken them.
- Horse-riders may need to suddenly avoid obstacles such as bumps or wet and icy patches. Give them as much space as possible and drive slowly when passing them.
Sergeant Kerry White, of our Roads Policing Unit said: “We know there will be more people out enjoying the countryside on horseback, particularly on rural roads across Thames Valley during school holidays and weekends.
“Operation Close Pass is about protecting these riders, who are especially vulnerable and can be seriously injured if drivers pass too closely or too quickly.
“Horses can be unpredictable if they are startled, so it is vital that motorists slow down, give plenty of space and pass with care. By taking a few extra seconds to overtake safely, drivers can make a real difference in preventing collisions and keeping both riders and animals safe.
“We would urge all road users to be patient and follow the Highway Code, so that everyone can enjoy the roads safely.”
Alan Hiscox, Director of Safety at British Horse Society said: “Sadly too many horses’ lives have been lost on our roads over the past decade. Whilst we appreciate those who follow the Highway Code guidance, there is still significant work to be done to ensure the safety of all road users.
“The Operation Close Pass campaign is so vital to help make more drivers aware of how to pass horse riders and carriage drivers safely on the roads.
"As part of our partnership and work with them, we encourage all motorists to slow down to 10mph, not to sound your horn or rev your engine, and when it’s safe to do so, to pass slow and wide and drive slowly away.”