Riding on the Road

Always ride on the left-hand side of the road with the flow of traffic (remember the Australian Road Rules – the horse is considered a vehicle on the road)

Try to maintain about 50cm riding distance from the nature strip

Try not to allow traffic to push or squeeze you into the nature-strip

Ride in single file when riding round bends and corners

On left-hand bends and turns, check over left shoulder for any cyclists or pedestrians on your near-side.

Ride straight and prevent the horse from swinging its quarters into traffic (a schooling whip is an ideal aid)

At intersections – ensure you have full and clear visibility of traffic approaching.

Signalling

Just like riding a dressage test, riders must prepare in plenty of time before manoeuvering. Be decisive and don’t dither!

  1. Confirm: Routine – Observe, Signal, Observe
  2. Keeping both hands on the reins, turn from the waist and look for traffic.
  3. Give clear arm signals (extend arm out straight from the body, fingers closed with palm facing the front.
  4. Never signal with a whip in your signalling hand.
  5. Before moving off give a final “life-saver” look

sign1

sign2

Giving signals to other road users does not guarantee safety. Other road users may not act responsibly or may not see you. Always ensure your path is safe and clear before moving off.

If appropriate riders may use the stop signal to drivers: extend arm straight out in front of body with palm facing the front (fingers closed) and say “stop”.

Driver please slow down: extend arm out to the side and move up and down.

sign3

Tips for Riding in Groups on the Road:

Establish firstly methods of communications between riders and groups (emphasise using leaders and shepherds)

Consider road crossings – groups at a time or all together. Avoid the “trickle effect”

Ideally groups should consist of no more than 8 riders

Riders should leave min 1.3m nose to tail

Groups should leave min 30m between groups

Pairs should not be more than 1.5m apart

Ride in single-file when circumstances dictate

Do not allow riders to “wander” around on the road

Obstruction of other road users should be avoided

Young and/or inexperienced horses should be kept to the inside of older experienced horses

Set the pace with all riders before moving off

Think! Have some horse sense on the roads!