Extra Measures for Roadside Safety

It certainly seems that horse-vehicle accidents have been on the rise. While many riders have the luxury of never needing to ride near a roadway, many riders have no choice but to cross one or travel along one for some distance to get to their trail destination. If you don’t have the option to trailer to the trailhead, it’s important to practice safety in this time of notorious texting-while-driving operators and hurried commuters.

1. Is your horse ready?

Is your horse desensitized? Can you open umbrellas and move tarps or other frightening objects near and on your horse? If not, it’s not a good idea to ride him on busy roads.

2. Know the laws in your state.

Many states declare that horses have the same rights and rules as vehicles on roadways. Others, such as New Mexico, have more specific guidelines such as not being allowed to travel roads at night.

3. Stay on your side.

Horses are to travel with the flow of traffic.

4. Keep aware.

Watch for anything and everything and scan the roadway far ahead of you. Watch for signals from your horse, also. Remember, they have a broad peripheral range and great hearing. Teamwork!

5. Avoid rush hours.

6. Make You and Your Horse Seen

Although it’s the driver’s responsibility to be aware of the roadway, it’s better for everyone if you and your horse wear reflective and bright gear. Here are some accessory ideas to get you started on being safe without feeling tacky:

• Reflective tape: The versatility of this allows you to put it anywhere and everywhere you want. If you use hoof boots, you can dazzle them up with a nice tape job.

• Easyboot Transitions: Did you know that the Easyboot Transitions are reflective? The eyelets on the front, the front strap, and the back strap all are made from light-echoing material.
• LED lights: If you like flashy, there are a lot of ways to get creative using battery powered LED lights. Check out EasyCare team member, Tina Ooley’s, creation for her mountain bike:

• 1” bicycle reflectors: You can find a 24 pack of small reflectors for an affordable price and bedazzle all the tack you can dream of.
• Other reflective gear: Bridle covers, leg bands, tail wraps, harnesses, halters, the list goes on…

7. Check your “tires”.

Take good care of your horse’s hooves and make sure they are well protected before hitting the road. Easyboots offer added traction and concussion absorption to keep your horse comfortable and safe, especially on pavement.

As riding season gears up, make sure you have everything you need to stay safe. EasyCare looks forward to hearing from you to take care of any riding needs that we may be able to assist with.