Equestrian Law

The Highway Code provides all the legal requirements for riding on our highways and byways in Sussex.

Below features some of the rules and advice applying particularly to horse riders when using the UK roads:

• Rule 49: Children under the age of 14 must wear a helmet that complies with the regulations. It must be securely fasten. It is also strongly advised that other horse riders should follow this advice.
• Rule 54: You must not take a horse onto a footpath or pavement and you should not take a horse on a cycle track. Use a bridleway where possible. You should dismount at a level crossing where a ‘Horse Riders Dismount’ sign is displayed.
  • Rule 55: Avoid roundabouts where possible. If you use them you should;
    1. Keep to the left and watch out for other vehicles crossing your path,
    2. Signal right when crossing exits to show you are not leaving,
    3. Signal left just before you leave the roundabout.
• Rule 253: Motorways must not be used by horse riders.

Visit the GOV.UK website for more information about legal requirements for Horse Riders.