21% Rise in Horse Road Incidents Sparks Concern

In the West Midlands, incidents resulting in injury or death to horses on roads have surged by 21% over the past year. Data from the British Horse Society (BHS) indicates 340 such incidents were recorded in 2025, an increase from 281 in 2024. This trend suggests existing road safety guidance, introduced four years ago, has not been sufficiently effective in alerting the public to the need for careful driving around equestrians.

Alan Hiscox, BHS director of safety, emphasized the urgent need for enhanced public awareness. He noted that despite strengthened Highway Code guidance, which requires motorists to drive at 10mph and maintain a two-meter distance when passing horse riders, equestrian safety remains overlooked in national strategies. The charity is pushing for a comprehensive approach involving education, prevention, and enforcement to protect horses and riders.

The Department for Transport stated that road user safety is a priority, and the Highway Code explicitly identifies horse riders as vulnerable. They affirmed that guidance on safe passing speeds and distances has been reinforced to ensure their protection.