Coping with a breakdown

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You are here: Home / Articles / Horse care

10 May, 2002

10 May 2002

Expert advice from HORSE magazine on how to cope if your equine transport breaks down with horses on board

1. Stop

If possible, try to get your vehicle to a safe place. This would mean the hard shoulder on a motorway, as close to the left-hand verge as is possible. On smaller roads, a verge or gateway would suffice, away from any bends or blind summits.

2. Warn others

Switch on your hazard warning lights. Place a hazard triangle or flashing lamp on the side of the road, 50-100m behind the vehicle. If you are parked on the road close to a bend, someone should warn oncoming traffic before the bend. In poor visibility, or darkness, leave the sidelights on.

3. Personal and passenger safety

Anyone on the road is potentially in danger from other vehicles. Where possible, the police suggest drivers should stay outside the car on the nearest verge. On no account should doors on the same side as the road be utilised. Be aware of your own safety and wear bright or reflective clothing if you have any.

4. Unloading horses

This should never be done without the police present – this applies to country lanes, as well as motorways. Although you may be concerned about your horse's welfare, think of the consequences if your horse breaks free. Talk to your horse to calm him, or call a local vet and have the animal sedated if necessary.

5. Be prepared

Before you begin any journey with horses, check you have the following useful items: