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Difficulty: HardAnimals and Horse Riders

When overtaking a horse and rider on a rural single carriageway with clear forward visibility, a driver is permitted to pass at a speed of up to 20 mph provided that a minimum lateral clearance of 2 metres is maintained.

Answer: Answer

Answer

False. Drivers must pass horse riders at speeds under 10 mph and allow at least 2 metres of clearance.
The statement is false because Highway Code Rule 215 specifies that drivers passing horse riders must slow down to under 10 mph and allow at least 2 metres of space. Passing at 20 mph is dangerous and breaches the guidance.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Identify the vulnerable road user and the relevant Highway Code rules.
The road user is an equestrian (horse and rider), governed by Highway Code Rule 215.
Horses are large, unpredictable flight animals that are easily startled by the noise, air displacement, and rapid approach of motor vehicles.
2
Evaluate the stated overtaking parameters against the official Highway Code guidance.
While the 2-metre lateral clearance is correct, the stated speed of up to 20 mph exceeds the required limit.
Highway Code Rule 215 requires drivers to pass horses at a maximum speed of 10 mph (not 20 mph) and leave at least 2 metres of space.
3
Determine the validity of the complete statement.
The statement is false.
Both the speed requirement (under 10 mph) and distance requirement (at least 2 metres) must be adhered to simultaneously.

Key Concept

Highway Code Rule 215 overtaking thresholds for horse riders and horse-drawn vehicles
Estimated Time:45s
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Topics

Animals and Horse Riders

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