Drivers have been warned they could face hefty penalties of up to £5,000 for failing to meet updated Highway Code rules which were introduced under the Conservative Government.
The Highway Code was changed in 2022 to include greater safety measures for pedestrians and how drivers should interact with animals on the road.
The updated rules included new minimum driving distances motorists should take when passing horses and cyclists with lengths extended to improve safety.
The need for greater measures comes after Government data revealed that between the months of March and May, the number of animal-related road incidents rapidly increases with 399 accidents being recorded between 2018 and 2022, including 112 fatal or serious incidents.
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In 2022, the Highway Code was updated to include new distances drivers must adhere to when passing horses
GOV.UK
Rule 215 of the Code states: "Horse riders and horse-drawn vehicles. Be particularly careful of horse riders and horse-drawn vehicles especially when approaching, overtaking, passing or moving away.
"Always pass wide and slowly. When you see a horse on a road, you should slow down to a maximum of 10 mph. Be patient, do not sound your horn or rev your engine. When safe to do so, pass wide and slow, allowing at least two metres of space."
Bryn Brooker, head of road safety at Nextbase, explained that many drivers may be "completely unaware" they could face severe penalties for failing to report hitting certain animals.
He explained that under the Road Traffic Act 1988, if a driver hits dogs, goats, horses, cattle, donkeys, mules, sheep, or pigs, they are legally required to report it to the police.
Failing to stop or report these incidents carries significant penalties including penalty points and fines up to £5,000, he warned.
While cats and foxes aren't covered by this specific reporting requirement, Brooker recommended reporting these to the RSPCA.
He said: "When an animal suddenly appears, your instinct to swerve could prove financially devastating as well as dangerous. Veering into oncoming traffic or off-road could result in catastrophic damage and injuries that could lead to further charges of dangerous driving.
"Instead, apply your brake, keep steering straight, and potentially use your horn to alert the animal if it is small. Only consider swerving if you're absolutely certain you can do so safely. And don’t use your horn on anything large like a horse."
As temperatures increase, experts warn this could bringparticular risks as wildlife becomes more active and could be more present on and around UK roads.
Brooker urged drivers to pay "special attention" to animal warning signs and to remember that animals typically travel in groups.
Brooker added: "If you do hit an animal, following the proper procedure is essential to avoid legal penalties. Pull over safely with hazard lights on and approach injured animals with extreme caution as they may be frightened and aggressive.
"Having a dashcam provides crucial evidence that could protect you from both legal penalties and insurance issues. This footage proves you weren't at fault and took appropriate action, potentially saving thousands in disputed claims and helping establish the facts if legal questions arise."
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Drivers must leave a minimum of two metres distance when passing horses on UK roads
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The changes to the Highway Code followed a public consultation on improving road safety for people walking, cycling and riding horses.
It ran from July to October 2020 and received more than 20,000 responses from the public, businesses and other organisations, with most people responding in favour of all the changes.
