Our roads today are much busier than they once were with more traffic and limited access to bridleways, often for those who do have access to off-road riding the route may take them via a road in order to get there. With that in mind in our latest blog Scientific Nutritional Products takes a look at riding safely on the road.
Wearing Appropriate Safety wear and Equipment
Wearing sensible boots and a riding hat is essential when riding at any time but even more paramount when riding on the road. Your riding hat should meet current safety standards and if you have fallen off in your riding hat it should be replaced. Some riders also chose to wear body protectors or air jackets which offers additional protection.
High visibility safety wear for you and your horse gives other road users the best chance to see you with statistics illustrating on average it ensures the wearer of high-visibility clothing is seen 3 seconds faster by drivers. This can impact stopping distances by 40metres if the car is travelling at 30mph!
Tell a friend or ride in company
When riding on the road or bridleways telling a friend or family member when and where you plan to go is vital so that if an accident did happen, you’d have someone on hand to help you or your horse. If you are not confident, or your horse or pony is spooky, it may be wise to ride out with another equine for company. If you are anxious you could even ask someone to come out on foot or on a pedal-bike for company and moral support.
Ensure you’re Insured!
Public liability insurance is a must for horse riders riding on the road. If your horse or pony accidentally damages a car or someone’s property whilst hacking you would be liable, so knowing you are fully insured will give you peace of mind when riding out. It is sensible to familiarise yourself with the Highway Code so any rules which apply to horse riders are clear in your mind.
Daylight Hours
As we have entered the Autumn months with it the daylight hours are reduced and often the weather can be gloomier and darker. Keeping abreast of the clock changes and the sunrise and sunset times when planning your ride can significantly improve your safety. This includes thinking carefully about the duration of your ride to make sure you’ll be back well-within daylight hours.
Happy, safe hacking everyone!
Autumn and Winter hacking can mean an increase in riding on the road. A comprehensive Hoof Supplement including Biotin for Horses can help make sure your horses' hooves are Strong, Healthy and in prime condition to hold a shoe. Robust Hoof Supplement from Scientific Nutrional Products has all the key ingredients including Biotin for Horses, Methionine, Lysine, MSM and Bioplex Minerals to repair weak and cracked hooves.
Scientific Nutritional Products also offer a wide range of Horse Supplements and Dog Joint Supplements for joint health, comprehensive vitamin and mineral packages, digestive supplements for gut health and more. For more information on the range available visit the website at www.horsesupplementsdirect.com or contact a member of the team on FREEPHONE 0800 032 7774.
