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Difficulty: EasyAnimals and Horse Riders

You are driving along a rural road and come up behind a horse and rider travelling in the same direction. What is the safest action to take when passing them?

  1. A
    Sound your horn gently to alert the rider of your presence before overtaking
  2. B
    Flash your headlights so the rider notices your vehicle and moves onto the verge
  3. Slow down to 10 mph or less and pass wide, leaving at least 2 metres of spaceAnswer
  4. D
    Overtake promptly without checking your blind spots to minimise time spent near the animal

Answer

Slow down to a maximum of 10 mph and pass wide, leaving at least 2 metres of clearance.
According to the UK Highway Code, drivers must pass horse riders and horse-drawn vehicles slowly and wide. Drivers should slow down to a maximum speed of 10 mph and allow at least 2 metres of clearance.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Assess the hazard and reduce speed
Vehicle speed is reduced to 10 mph or below without harsh braking or excessive engine revving
Horses are flight animals and can be easily startled by loud engine noise or sudden vehicle movement
2
Check mirrors and blind spots, then overtake only when clear and safe
The vehicle moves out to pass, giving at least 2 metres of room
UK Highway Code Rule 215 requires drivers to pass horses slowly and wide, maintaining at least 2 metres of lateral clearance

Key Concept

Highway Code rules for overtaking horses and vulnerable animals
Estimated Time:45s
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Topics

Animals and Horse Riders

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