Wild horses or ponies sign

What it means

Wild or semi-wild horses or ponies may be in or crossing the road.

The sign shows a horse with no rider. It warns of wild or semi-wild horses and ponies, such as those that roam the New Forest, Exmoor and Dartmoor.

Slow right down and be ready to stop. Do not feed or approach the animals, and do not scare them with your horn or engine.

Where you'll see it

On moorland and forest roads where ponies roam free.

Rules to know

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

  Know Your Traffic Signs, p. 14

• Feral or semi-feral ponies in areas such as the New Forest, Exmoor and Dartmoor need the same consideration as ridden horses when you approach or pass them.

  The Highway Code, Rule 215

• When you see a horse on a road, slow down to a maximum of 10 mph, be patient and do not sound your horn or rev your engine. When safe, pass wide and slowly, allowing at least 2 metres of space.

  The Highway Code, Rule 215

Common mistakes

• Mistake: Thinking the sign only matters in the dark.

  Instead: Ponies can be on the road at any time of day. They can move quickly if startled.

Test yourself

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

Question 1 of 1

What does this sign mean?

• AWild horses or ponies on the road
• BHorses or ponies likely on the road
• CHorse-drawn vehicles likely in the road
• DTraffic merges onto the main carriageway ahead

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