SHOCKING accident statistics have forced the UK’s leading horse organisation to launch a radical campaign. Nearly 10 per cent of reported road incidents last year resulted in horse fatality and more than seven per cent in serious injury to riders.

The British Horse Society has joined forces with road safety organisation GEM Motoring Assist to take a new approach to horse and rider safety on the roads with a hard-hitting leaflet campaign which is designed to promote road safety for both horse riders and drivers. It features advice from the viewpoints of both the driver and rider.

The leaflet – Horse Rider Safety – includes advice on the appropriate speed for motorists and the fact horses are ‘flight’ animals and can react suddenly and potentially dangerously to movement and noise.

BHS executive Sheila Hardy said: “It is very easy to blame other road users for accidents or misunderstandings on the road.

“If we have a greater understanding of the needs and concerns of others it can only make everyone safer on the roads.”

For horse riders, the leaflet covers issues such as hand signals and the importance of fluorescent clothing, especially leg wraps for the most visible part of the horse.

The campaign has already attracted a lot of support, including that of Dragons’ Den entrepreneur and keen rider, Deborah Meaden.

“For drivers and horse riders it is crucial that both parties acknowledge and understand the importance of road safety,” said Deborah. “Sharing the road means shared responsibility and this campaign offers a great resource for seeing things through the eyes of both rider and motorist.”The leaflet is available from the BHS website or by e-mail from r.lucas@bhs.org.uk.