Mobility

A horse may be afraid of a car or a motor vehicle. Even if it is desensitized to this danger with an experienced horse rider, an unexpected reaction on its part is still possible. How to react?

In principle, a horse rider riding on public roads has the required skills and experience. His horse has probably been desensitized to road traffic. He has therefore assimilated this environment. However, it's not his natural and usual setting. He may therefore have reactions of fear or aggression. Especially in the event of a sudden movement or unfamiliar noise.

How to react?

First of all: be patient! When passing the mount, you must slow down and, if necessary, stop. Especially if they are young riders learning with adults holding the mount on a lunge line. In any case, you must avoid passing near a horse or a pony at high speed. You also need to stay well away from the animal so as not to give it the impression of being in danger. And if that isn't possible: stop. It's important to avoid sources of noise: horn, engine noise, loud music, shouting, etc.

Overtaking

As soon as the horse rider or group is at a distance, you need to accelerate moderately. A sudden acceleration could surprise the horse and make it kick. The same applies when overtaking: safe space, moderate speed and acceleration. And if that's not possible, stay behind, at a good distance.

Lost animal

If the horse is alone, after running away for example, its reactions are even more unpredictable and potentially dangerous. If it's still possible, try to get away by backing up or turning around and call the police. But if the horse is very close, it's important to stop, turn off the engine and the radio before calling the police. Do not get out of the vehicle, unless – and only – if you have real riding experience. Don't put yourself in danger and also think about protecting any passengers.

(MH with Olivier Duquesne – Picture : © picture alliance / Caro | Sorge)