Drivers who 'honk the horn' could face £1,000 fine, expert warns

Motorists should avoid honking their horn at this particular road user – or risk a nasty fine.

Drivers heading out this weekend could face fines of up to £1,000 if they use their horn towards a certain fellow four-legged road user, an expert warns. While most drivers are aware of the risks of speeding or using a phone at the wheel, they also need to be wary of how they treat horses.

It turns out that frightening a horse and rider on the road is a punishable offence under the UK Road Traffic Act. The law states that if a motorist causes "alarm, distress or annoyance" to a horse, they can be reported by the rider and fined.

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What's more, the Highway Code makes clear that horses and their riders have priority on the road. This means that drivers must treat them as vulnerable road users, which includes actions such as giving space, slowing right down, and being prepared to stop altogether if needed.

While it might sound like unusual legislation, the consequences of breaking it can be serious. Particularly with rural roads busier than ever, campaigners are calling for more awareness around these rules. According to the British Horse Society, 3,383 horse-related road incidents were reported in 2023, with 85 horses killed and 66 riders injured.

A spokesperson for Discount Equestrian said: "Horses are prey animals – they can react suddenly to loud noises, fast movements, or cars passing too close. That’s why the law exists: to protect both riders and motorists. It often surprises drivers to learn that horses have priority on the road, but recognising that fact is the key to preventing serious accidents."

It’s crucial to remember that the law around horses and the road states that drivers can be fined up to £1,000 if a driver is found guilty of spooking a horse, and that horses are recognised as road users with priority over motor vehicles in certain situations.

This is because startled horses can bolt, putting riders, animals and nearby vehicles at risk. If you come across a horse while driving, it’s advised to slow down to 10 to 15mph when passing and to give at least two metres’ clearance.

You should also avoid revving engines or sounding horns. As horses remain a regular sight on Britain’s country lanes, Discount Equestrian’s has shared three golden rules for drivers to follow.

Three golden rules for drivers

Remember: horses have priority – be ready to give way.

Pass wide and slow – think “dead slow, wide and quiet.”

Treat horses as you would cyclists: give space, be patient, and wait until safe to overtake.