Riders and carriages on public roads

Horse riding is recognized as a sport that is practiced either in the sand or in the grass for professionals. However, at the same time, horse riding exploits the public highway when there are carriages involved. To learn all about riders and carriages on public roads, continue reading.

Riders on public roads

Riders are allowed to use the public highway for their various jobs. It is generally on the back of their mount, covered by the saddle displayed on La Sellerie Française , that they tread the asphalt. This requires good practice. Above all, there are important rules that it is their responsibility to respect to the letter.

To begin with, the rider must control his horse. In reality, on the road, there are motor vehicles circulating. Your horse may not be very used to this reality and you must prepare him for it. It is advisable to perform each movement properly to calm him down, help him maintain the pace in any circumstance and above all manage all the defenses in the event of unforeseen events. It is then necessary to establish one's authority in the relationship between the horse and oneself. Thus, he will do what is necessary when ordered to do so for the safety of other users.

In addition, to ride as a rider on public roads, you must be at least 14 years old. You must also be aware of the highway code and behave like a motorcyclist or a car driver. You must therefore be as close to the roadway as possible. If you are at least 12 years old and an adult over 21 is available to accompany you, you can also access public roads as a rider.

Couplings on public roads

Before going on the public highway as a carriage driver, the first principle is to be 16 years old. Above all, you must have the minimum of skills and knowledge in driving. The highway code is the legal text that you must have in mind at all times and in all places. Having a horse professional next to you when moving a horse in the carriage or for a convoy is very important. He will demonstrate his expertise if there are situations in which his skills are required. These are unforeseen events. It is better to have him on site as a guarantee.

The carriage on the public highway is considered a vehicle. It must therefore circulate on the right close to the roadway. It has no right to compete for space with pedestrians. When it is necessary to turn in one direction or another, it is necessary to indicate this by using one's arms and one's eyes.

For a team on the public highway, it is important not to exceed four horses in a team and three abreast. Above all, if the team is longer than 12 meters, someone must follow you on foot to secure the load. In built-up areas, teams are not allowed to circulate because this presents significant risks for residents.