Riders 'fear for their lives' on Ross roads

It was part of a campaign which aims to increase awareness of the dangers of driving too fast and overtaking too close to horses being ridden perfectly legally on local roads.

MSP Kate Forbes, whose Skye, Lochaber and Badenoch constituency takes in the Black Isle, met campaigners to hear first hand their concerns. The campaign was highlighted earlier this year by the Ross-shire Journal when riders revealed their concerns.

After meeting campaigners near Cullicudden, Miss Forbes said: “In a rural place like the Black Isle it’s not surprising to see horse riders. Despite that, I was really disappointed to hear that drivers usually drive too close and too fast when passing a horse. There is evidently a lot of work to do in educating drivers about overtaking horses and the serious dangers of scaring horses.

“Sadly, horse riders told me that they believe the roads are increasingly dangerous for horse riding, despite horse riders having equal access to the road. I support these horse riders on the Black Isle who want to raise awareness of how to overtake horses and ensure that riders don’t fear for their safety when riding in a rural place like the Black Isle.”

Since 2010, there have been almost 150 incidents on Scottish roads involving both motorists and horse riders – including two rider fatalities and 50 serious injuries.

One local rider earlier told the Ross-shire Journal how she had taken to wearing head-mounted cameras in a bid to protect herself and others. Concern over an increasing number of near misses and alarming incidents has prompted calls to the police to intervene.

Nel MacDonald-Rolfe, one of the riders, said: “Rural roads are to be treated with respect even by the locals who become complacent and take chances. You never know what is round the corner nor what can suddenly appear from the side of the roads.

“Rural roads are there to be used by all, which includes cycles, walkers and horse riders. Patience and respect for all users and educating is the key. As they say, speed kills.”

The appeal to drivers to rein in their speed and to be aware of other road users followed near-misses on the B9169 Cullicudden straight. Police say they recognise the vulnerability of horses on roads and encourage motorists and riders to show mutual respect for each other.

They say all road users should be able to travel safely and drivers should give horses as much room as possible when passing. They want road users to read the Highway Code for guidance.

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