Op Close Pass helps make roads safer for horseriders

Do you know your Highway Code?

Changes were made in 2022 to make our roads safer for vulnerable road users including pedestrians, cyclists and horseriders.

And with Summer just around the corner, our Durham Roads and Armed Policing Team officers are stepping up Operation Close Pass to keep everyone as safe as possible on our roads.

The latest operation saw police staff member and keen horserider, Olivia Whitehill, team up with our motorbike section to identify drivers who passed too fast or too closely in Durham.

The Code states that drivers must pass horseriders no less than 2m away and at no more than 10mph. Crossing white lines is permitted when passing a horse if it is safe to do so.

Any driver passing too fast or too close was flagged to our officers who pulled over the drivers and had a quick chat with them, giving them the option of words of advice or a ticket. We are happy to say all drivers opted for the first option.

Strategic Roads Policing Inspector, Andrew Howarth, said: “We want to make sure everyone who uses our roads gets home safely but unfortunately we see fatalities every year that could have been avoided.

“Vulnerable road users are most at risk and even the most seasoned horses can bolt if passed too quickly or closely so Op Close Pass is just one of the ways we work to maximise the safety of both the rider, horse and motorist.

“All we ask is that drivers be considerate and think twice before passing a horserider.”

Olivia added: “As a young equestrian, I’m sure I speak for many when I say other road users can make me feel unsafe while riding my horse.

“My passion is horses and to keep them fit and healthy, I must ride up a road to get to my local off-road hacking areas.

“There have been numerous occasions where drivers have driven past me at high speeds almost hitting me or almost hitting me because they are too close.

“My horses are very used to the road however, horses are unpredictable animals and may spook if drivers are disrespectful.

“I understand it can be frustrating for drivers to pass horses wide and slow, but as vulnerable road users, your cooperation matters.”

All up-to-date changes to the Highway Code can be found here: https://www.gov.uk/government/news/the-highway-code-8-changes-you-need-to-know-from-29-january-2022