Highway Code Animal Rules FAQ

FAQ on Animal Rules in The Highway CodeWhat are the essential safety requirements for horse-drawn vehicles operating on the highway?Horse-drawn vehicles must be operated and maintained according to standards outlined in the Department for Transport’s Code of Practice. This code includes requirements for a road driving assessment and safety checks for the carriage and its fittings. Regarding safety equipment, all horse-drawn vehicles should have two red rear reflectors. When driving at night, a light showing white to the front and red to the rear MUST be fitted.
What safety equipment is legally required for child horse riders on the road?Children under the age of 14 MUST wear a helmet that complies with the Regulations, and it MUST be fastened securely. This requirement does not apply to a child who is a follower of the Sikh religion while wearing a turban. Other riders should also follow these requirements for safety.
What is recommended for horse riders to wear for visibility, especially at night?In addition to boots or shoes with hard soles and heels, riders should wear light-coloured or fluorescent clothing in daylight to enhance visibility. If riding at night or in poor visibility, reflective clothing is recommended. When riding at night, it is also recommended that the horse has reflective bands above the fetlock joints and that the rider wears a light showing white to the front and red to the rear, attached to their right arm and/or leg/riding boot. When leading a horse at night, carry a light in your right hand showing white to the front and red to the rear, and wear reflective clothing on both yourself and your horse. A fluorescent/reflective tail guard is also strongly recommended for the horse.
What steps should a rider take to ensure their horse is safe to take on the road?Before taking a horse or horse-drawn vehicle onto the road, riders should ensure that all tack fits well and is in good condition and that they can control the horse. Inexperienced riders or those who haven't ridden for a while should consider taking the Ride Safe Award from the British Horse Society, which provides foundational safety knowledge for riding in all environments, particularly on the road. It is also advised to ride with other, less nervous horses if your horse is likely to be nervous of traffic. A horse should never be ridden without both a saddle and bridle.
What are the key rules for riding a horse on the road regarding position and formation?When riding on the road, riders should keep to the left, keep both hands on the reins unless signalling, and keep both feet in the stirrups. Riders should not carry another person or anything that might affect their balance or get tangled with the reins. When leading a horse, it should be kept to the rider's left. In a one-way street, riders should move in the direction of the traffic flow. Riders should never ride more than two abreast and should ride in single file on narrow or busy roads and when riding around bends. Before riding off or turning, riders should look behind and give a clear arm signal.
Are horse riders allowed on footpaths, pavements, or cycle tracks?No, horse riders MUST NOT take a horse onto a footpath or pavement. They should also not take a horse onto a cycle track. Where possible, riders should use a bridleway. Equestrian crossings may be provided for horse riders to cross the road, and these should be used when available. Riders should dismount at level crossings where a 'horse rider dismount' sign is displayed.
How should dogs be managed when on or near the road?Dogs should not be let out on the road on their own. When walking on the pavement, road, or a path shared with cyclists or horse riders, dogs should be kept on a short lead.
How should animals be restrained when traveling in a vehicle?When transporting dogs or other animals in a vehicle, they must be suitably restrained. This is to prevent them from distracting the driver or causing injury to themselves or others if the vehicle stops quickly. Recommended methods of restraint include a seat belt harness, pet carrier, dog cage, or dog guard.
What are the guidelines for herding animals on the road, especially after dark?Animals being herded on the road should be kept under control at all times. If possible, another person should be sent along the road in front to warn other road users, particularly at bends or the brow of a hill. It is safer not to move animals after dark. However, if this is necessary, those herding the animals should wear reflective clothing, and lights should be carried (white at the front and red at the rear of the herd).