Police Launch Campaign for 10mph Speed Limit Near Horses After Fatal Incidents
Drivers across England are being urged to significantly reduce their speed to just 10mph when encountering horses on the road, as part of a major new highway safety initiative. This urgent call to action follows shocking statistics revealing 3,118 road incidents involving horses in 2024 alone, with 58 horses tragically killed in these collisions.
Parliamentary Debate Highlights Growing Safety Concerns
In a January 2026 parliamentary debate focused on horse and rider safety, MPs from various constituencies demanded stricter road safety measures to protect equine road users. The debate prominently featured British Horse Society data documenting the alarming number of incidents and fatalities.
Dr Danny Chambers, the Liberal Democrat MP for Winchester and a former equine veterinarian, emphasized to fellow parliamentarians that horse road safety represents a critical public safety issue rather than a niche concern. "I have stitched up and euthanised more horses that have been hit by cars than I can remember," Chambers revealed, highlighting the devastating personal and professional experience that informs his advocacy.
Police Partnership with Equestrian Organizations
Devon and Cornwall Police's Rural Affairs team has collaborated with the British Horse Society to produce educational horse road safety films. These films were recorded at The Mare and Foal Sanctuary's Upcott Park Rehoming Yard near Holsworthy in North Devon, providing authentic settings for safety demonstrations.
PC Lucy Wyatt, who leads on equine crime for the police's Rural Affairs team, shared her personal perspective as both an officer and experienced rider. "I grew up riding horses and have experienced, first-hand, how dangerous it can be when motorists pass too fast or too close," Wyatt explained. She emphasized that horses remain unpredictable animals that can easily spook, making cautious driving essential.
"So, if you come across a horse on the road, aim to give them at least two metres of space and pass at no more than 10mph," Wyatt advised motorists, providing clear, actionable guidance for safer interactions.
Call for Comprehensive Incident Reporting
Alan Hiscox, Director of Safety at the British Horse Society, stressed the importance of thorough incident documentation for driving legislative improvements. "Encouraging more equestrians to record every incident they witness, or are involved in, will be essential when it comes to driving further legislative change," Hiscox stated, highlighting how data collection supports advocacy efforts.
Jenna Goldby, Head of Welfare and Rehoming at The Mare and Foal Sanctuary, urged riders to prioritize road safety with the same vigilance they apply to their horses' health. "Be seen, be courteous and stay safe," Goldby recommended, offering concise safety principles for equestrians sharing roads with vehicles.
Broader Road Safety Implications Beyond Horses
Sgt Owen Messenger of the Roads Policing team expanded the safety discussion to include all animals on roadways, particularly in rural areas like Dartmoor. "Collisions between vehicles and animals across the moor is something that, unfortunately, happens frequently," Messenger noted.
"Dartmoor is home to many animals who roam the area freely, so it's important that motorists take extra care, drive to the conditions and abide by speed limits," he added, reminding drivers that responsible speed management protects both domestic animals and wildlife.
The campaign represents a coordinated effort between law enforcement, equestrian organizations, and animal welfare groups to address preventable tragedies through education, awareness, and behavioral change among all road users.
