When the worst happens

QIf a collision occurs between a horse and vehicle, what can riders expect from the police? Emma Souness, Bournemouth

Zoe says... This will be guided by the level of injury to the rider. A spectrum of injuries could have occurred, from minor to severe, life changing, or fatal. Drivers and passengers may also be injured if the horse has come through the windscreen, which has been known. Therefore the first thing that will happen is the road will be closed if necessary and medical attention provided, including a vet.

The investigation

Next, a specialist collision investigator may be required if significant or fatal injury has occurred. They will examine the scene and appeal for witness evidence, which will often take the form of helmet or dashcam footage. This is excellent evidence to allow the behaviour of all three parties to be observed — the horse, the rider, and the driver of the vehicle.

Who’s at fault?

Horses and riders are legal road users and the police recognise that horses are flight animals. It’s more likely that the behaviour and speed of the driver will come under scrutiny, but the behaviour and measures taken by the rider will be looked at too. Have you, as a rider, tried to minimise your horse’s reaction to a hazard? Have you used a gesture (an approved one!) towards the driver? While hi-vis isn’t mandatory, what efforts have you made to be visible and manage your own safety? These are all things that will be considered following an event like this.