Drivers face having to obey 10mph speed limit in england or risk £5k fine

RULE 215 OF THE HIGHWAY CODE REQUIRES DRIVERS TO BE PARTICULARLY CAREFUL OF HORSE RIDERS AND HORSE-DRAWN VEHICLES WHILE ON THE ROAD. 10:51, 03 Jun 2025 Drivers risk hefty penalties for

failing to slow down to 10mph under Highway Code rules. Rule 215 of the Highway Code requires drivers to be particularly careful of horse riders and horse-drawn vehicles while on the road.

The rule states: "Always pass wide and slowly. When you see a horse on a road, you should slow down to a maximum of 10mph. Be patient, do not sound your horn or rev your engine. When

safe to do so, pass wide and slowly, allowing at least two metres of space." As well as the 10mph requirement, road users are warned they must take action if they accidentally collide

with an animal. READ MORE UK FACES 'SPANISH SCORCHER' HEATWAVE WITH 31C AS EXACT DATE IT STARTS ANNOUNCED Road users who do this must report this to the police, with motorists who

fail to do so facing significant prosecution, including penalty points and fines up to £5,000, road users and drivers have been warned. Article continues below The warning from the experts

adds: "Feral or semi-feral ponies found in areas such as the New Forest, Exmoor and Dartmoor require the same consideration as ridden horses when approaching or passing. Look out for

horse riders’ and horse drivers’ signals and heed a request to slow down or stop." Bumper, a motoring expert group, warned: "This is crucial to prevent accidents caused by spooked

horses, which can react unpredictably to perceived threats. "Most comprehensive car insurance policies will cover the cost of a horse damaging a vehicle, provided it wasn’t the driver’s

fault." Article continues below Bryn Brooker, head of road safety at Nextbase, has also spoken out and warned: "If you do hit an animal, following the proper procedure is

essential to avoid legal penalties. Pull over safely with hazard lights on and approach injured animals with extreme caution, as they may be frightened and aggressive. "Having a dashcam

provides crucial evidence that could protect you from both legal penalties and insurance issues. "This footage proves you weren't at fault and took appropriate action, potentially

saving thousands in disputed claims and helping establish the facts if legal questions arise."