Being a safe and responsible driver takes a combination of knowledge, skill and attitude. You need to do more than just obey the rules. You must care about the safety of others on the road. Central Hastings O.P.P Detachment Commander Staff Sergeant Peter Valiquette reminds motorists that “road safety is every driver’s responsibility whether encountering pedestrians, cyclists, farm equipment, horse-drawn vehicles or a school bus. Being patient and courteous will help to ensure a safe arrival for everyoneâ€.
Recognize the Slow Moving Vehicle Emblem – Brake Immediately – While driving on area rural roads or highways; you may encounter horse-drawn vehicles. It is important to recognize the slow moving vehicle sign as a warning to adjust your speed. Slow moving vehicle signs are attached to the rear of animal-drawn vehicles and on other vehicles designed to travel at speeds no greater than 40km per hour. Because it may be difficult to judge the speed at which you are closing in on such a vehicle, you should slow down immediately.
Pass with Caution – Be watchful of vehicles behind you that may also try to pass. If you must enter the oncoming lane of traffic, do not pass unless you can see clearly ahead of both you and the vehicle you will pass. If there are any curves or hills ahead that may block your view of oncoming vehicles, do not pass.
Leave a Safe Distance – Often drivers of horse-drawn vehicles may not be able to see you behind them. Following too closely is especially dangerous, as it puts yourself as well as the occupants of the horse-drawn vehicle in a hazardous position. Leave a cushion of safety between you and the horse-drawn vehicle, maintaining a measurable distance from the front of your car to the rear of the buggy. Also be aware that when stopped at a traffic light or stop sign buggies will often roll back a few feet after coming to a complete stop. Offering a safe distance gives you a chance to react if a dangerous situation arises.
Animals are Unpredictable – In addition to being hard to see and slow-moving, horses can be unpredictable, easily spooked and may not react the way you would like them to.