Accompanied horses or ponies sign

What it means

Horses or ponies with riders or handlers are likely to be in or crossing the road ahead.

The horse and rider warn of people riding or leading horses, often from stables or along bridleways.

Horses can be startled easily. Slow down to no more than 10 mph, pass wide and slowly, and never sound your horn or rev your engine near them.

Where you'll see it

Near riding stables and where bridleways cross the road.

Rules to know

• The sign warns of accompanied horses or ponies likely to be in or crossing the road.

  Know Your Traffic Signs, p. 14

• When you see a horse on a road, you should slow down to a maximum of 10 mph, and when safe, pass wide and slow, allowing at least 2 metres of space.

  The Highway Code, Rule 215

• Be patient, and do not sound your horn or rev your engine.

  The Highway Code, Rule 215

Common mistakes

• Mistake: Passing close and fast once there is a gap.

  Instead: Horses can react suddenly. Slow to 10 mph or less and leave at least 2 metres.

Test yourself

Recalling the answer helps it stick. Pick an answer to see how you did.

Question 1 of 2

What does this sign mean?

• ANo ridden or accompanied horses
• BTraffic merging from the left ahead
• CRoad runs beside a quayside or river bank
• DHorses or ponies likely on the road

Ready for more? Take the Warning Signs Quiz