by Jane O'Connor

 

It is not uncommon to see riders taking to road verges, country lanes and trails. It is also a fact that many, whether experienced riders or novices, will run into unsafe and challenging situations.

 

Imagine for a moment that you have got into an unfamiliar car only to discover that it lacks taillights, indicators, the steering is difficult and worse still, the brakes don’t work. Add to that no insurance, little knowledge of the road rules and unexpected obstacles. The list of hazards likely to be encountered on the unfamiliar ‘drive’ is extensive – unforseen road work, other thoughtless drivers and those who are adamant that you shouldn’t be there in the first place. And yet, we put ourselves and our children into such situations, often because it is the only option. But, some sensible thinking, forward planning, knowledge and education can help add to not only our own safety, but ensure our horses are able to enjoy the experience too. With an understanding of why horses may react in the way they are instinctively wired to do and improving our ability to deal with any obstacles along the way, such an enjoyable pursuit is not only greatly enhanced, but we can play a part in beginning to educate other road users. 

 

World renowned expert in equitation science, Professor Paul McGreevy, from the Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Sydney and his team are spearheading a research project aimed at determining the best methods for riders to be able to reliably ‘put the brakes on’ via the reins and through pressure on the bit. Elite and experienced riders understand what it means to have ‘good hands’ and understand what it takes to ride an unfamiliar horse – or even a familiar one in different surroundings – but, this knowledge can be lacking in the leisure riding market. While the researchers continue their work, not only to enhance rider safety, but also to ensure the welfare of our horses, cut the cost of injuries and devise safer training methods, we have called on Horse SA to share its guide for safe behaviour when we take to the road or trail.

 

Often, the only option for riders is to utilise roads and road verges, so a positive and safe approach is important. You may be agisting or lack the space for an extended training or pleasure ride, so it is not uncommon for us to exercise our rights as road users. Horse SA CEO, Julie Fielder, compiled the following guide, which poses a set of facts and questions that every rider should complete before heading out. 

 

So, you know your horse? It is calm and confident at home, at pony club or at an adult rider club meet. Does the operator of that fun beach or trail ride know their mounts well enough and have taken all the possibilities into account? Before getting out on the road, learn why you may get certain reactions. The reality is that you can ride your horse on the road, where it is classified as a vehicle under the Australian Road Rules. Road verges, shared trails, beaches and the like are often signposted as to whether horses are allowed. But, Julie urges all riders to check with their local police and traffic authorities as laws vary in different states. Saying you didn’t know after the event is no excuse. 

 

Rule one is to understand physical realities - the horse simply doesn’t see things the way you do. The placement of its eyes gives it almost all-round vision. It has very accurate hearing and will often detect distant noises that we can’t. They also have a strong sense of smell and some odours are extremely unpleasant for your equine friend.

 

Rule Two - while riding, think about what the car driver might see and think. Many drivers have no experience of large animals and do not  understand how a horse can react and perhaps, suddenly step sideways. A rider on roadsides with traffic needs to ride positively and proactively. Dress in bright colours, use hand signals and thank courteous drivers with a smile and a wave.  

 

Julie suggests discussing with your riding coach or a more experienced rider whether you could ride your horse safely if you were suddenly confronted by actions such as someone opening an umbrella, a dog running out barking, plastic bags flapping in the wind, livestock on the other side of a fence, water or road grit being thrown up by passing cars or when walkers or cyclists appear on a shared roadway. “You might need some practice first,” Julie says. Part of that practice involves you learning to concentrate. “A horse and rider who are half asleep are more likely to be startled by a sudden noise.” 

 

You and your horse have every right to be on the road.But, that assumes you also know what the road rules are. It also assumes you can control the horse in a very broad range of situations. Like learning to drive, a bit of practice goes a long way. Julie suggests riding around some common roadside objects at home before venturing out – wheelie bins and friends on bikes for example. Also ensure the horse is obedient to your aids. Get your horse listening to you and your commands. Also, practice standing still for longer than normal as though you are waiting on the side of the road to cross. Make sure hooves and shoes are in good condition.

 

Young, inexperienced horses are not suitable for roadway riding, but if this is the case then always ride with other calm, steady horses and avoid main roads and peak traffic times.

 

In an ideal world, our fellow road users would be considerate, polite and stick to the rules. But, as Julie says, ‘car drivers are not horse psychologists’. The reaction of drivers around horses will vary from the belief that they shouldn’t be on or near roads in the first place, riders are rude and don’t acknowledge when someone has tried to do the right thing, or they will make a judgement as to whether a rider is under control or not. That truck driver may not have seen you when he switches on the noisy engine brakes. Much of this roadside riding also occurs in urban/rural fringe areas, where traffic levels are much higher and more diverse than in a remoter rural zone. In this situation you are another road user with all the responsibilities that go with it.

 

Julie says car drivers generally don’t understand that even the calmest horse can trip and given their size and weight, may have to step sideways to get legs and body back under control. “Drivers need to be educated, but we can help through good examples of riding and using courteous manners on the road,” she says. 

 

A great pair of sunnies, those colourful new joddies, a sharp shirt and vest and off you go looking a million dollars. The first ‘wardrobe’ thought should be whether what is on your head is an Australian Standards approved safety helmet and it is securely fastened. The Equestrian Australia website – www.equestrian.org.au and look for safety – will outline the details.

 

Leave the funky runners or gumboots at home too and wear proper riding boots. Light, bright clothing and reflective or fluorescent vests are ideal, as are light coloured gloves that will help highlight hand signals.

 

The horse’s ‘outfit’ – a saddle and bridle – needs to fit well and be in good condition. If you are leading a horse on the road, Julie says, then the horse should always be under control. Never, ever ride with stirrup bars in the ‘up’ or ‘locked’ position and make sure stirrup irons are not too large or too small as both are dangerous. There are safety stirrup designs now on the market. Look for reflective accessories (different to fluoro gear) – leg bands, tail guards and bridle straps, for example.

 

In the competition arena, riders must be aware of what is around them. Translate this to the road or trail. What is behind, in front and approaching from the sides? What the weather is doing will impact on visibility – yours and the rest of the traffic. The hidden hazards often derail us – those truck air brakes again, slippery surfaces, will you be home before dark? Even painted white lines on roads can startle some horses.

 

A key element in keeping our roads and trails safe is common courtesy. Julie suggests that if you come across pedestrians and cyclists on shared paths, pass each other at a walk. There might be an opportunity to keep the horse on the higher side of the trail, which will keep the horse calmer. “Most people are frightened, or at least quite wary of meeting a horse ‘outside of the paddock,’” she says. A friendly forward greeting by the rider can go a long, reassuring way too. Acknowledge considerate drivers with a nod and a smile. Don’t dawdle in front of cars and pull off the road if you are causing a hold up.

 

Familiarise yourself with the Australian Road Rules as they relate to horses. Each state will outline road rules in this regard through either state transport departments or road use authorities.  You are also subject to the same penalties for traffic offences as all other drivers. Check out the link below for more information.

 

Check whether riding is allowed on the footpaths and nature strips that will form part of your route. If it is, then you must give way to pedestrians. Check state rules for riding two-abreast as they will restrict the distance between you, allowing other traffic to overtake safely. You absolutely must not lead an animal while also driving a motor vehicle or riding a bike.

 

They do happen and there is a high chance you will be carrying a mobile phone on the ride. Make sure appropriate emergency and police reporting numbers are on your phone. Reports of drivers harassing you while riding, dangerous driving, being tailgated or put in a dangerous situation should be reported, so be prepared to take registration details and vehicle descriptions. Road hazards are regularly reported by cyclists and Julie says it is time for horse riders to do the same. Hazards such as broken glass or dangerous areas in need of repair can be reported to state transport departments or the major road authority. 

 

Whether attending a pony club, having regular riding lessons or just riding for pleasure, there are ways we can teach children and ourselves to be more safety conscious. Julie says that such tests can be run as part of a pony club lesson – such as making emergency dismounts on the offside into a fun, timed lesson. The same can be done with remounts. Less experienced riders should discuss and try these techniques with more experienced riders.

 

Think ahead if you are planning your first off-property ride. Walk or drive the route from start to finish and note all the obstacles and hazards. Practice what signals you are going to need. If unsure of your horse’s likely reactions, set up a simulated ‘obstacle course’ using jump poles, spray paint or white tape to test it in an arena or grassed area. Make sure the gates are closed in case you do get that flight reaction.  

 

For further information visit www.horseroadsafety.org.au