Loose Horses on Roads: A Growing Safety Concern

There has been a worrying rise in reports of loose horses on roads in our local area, and sadly some incidents have had tragic outcomes.

Locally, a horse was reported loose between Droxford and Hambledon and was killed in a collision with a vehicle on a busy rural road. Another horse involved was rescued by a member of the public after the same incident. (Meon Valley Times)

A BBC News article also highlighted a separate case just a day later where three horses lost their lives after running loose on the A3. (BBC News)

These stories are deeply saddening reminders of how quickly a loose horse situation can escalate and why prevention is essential.

Why Loose Horses Are So Dangerous

Horses are naturally flight-driven animals. Once loose, especially near roads, they may react unpredictably to traffic, noise, or unfamiliar surroundings. A spooked, loose horse can travel significant distances and enter roads at speed, creating a high risk of serious injury or fatal collisions to the horse and to riders, drivers, passengers, and other road users.

Common Causes of Escapes

Some of the most frequent causes of horses escaping include:

• Poorly maintained or broken fencing

• Gates left open or not properly secured

• Faulty electric fencing or disconnected power

• Horses bolting from stables, paddocks, or horseboxes

• Stressful environments or sudden loud noises

• Turnout near busy areas without adequate containment

Practical Steps to Prevent Escapes

1. Maintain fencing and boundaries

Walk your fence lines regularly and check for damaged posts, loose wires, and broken rails. Electric fencing should be tested and energised consistently.

2. Secure gates

Ensure all gates are closed and properly latched. Simple routines like checking a gate every time it’s used help prevent escapes.

3. Safe handling

Use well-fitted headcollars and strong lead ropes. Remain calm and deliberate when leading horses, especially near exits or roads.

4. Turnout considerations

Turn horses out into safe, well-contained areas. Avoid letting young, excitable, or nervous horses into paddocks that border roads without secure perimeter fencing.

5. Emergency preparedness

• Ensure horses are microchipped with up-to-date contact details

• Keep contact numbers easily accessible, such as on a yard noticeboard

• Have a plan for safely containing a loose horse

What to Do If You See a Loose Horse on the Road

If you encounter a loose horse on or near a road:

• Slow right down and use hazard lights to warn other drivers

• Do not make sudden noises or movements that could startle the horse

• Contact the police immediately. They can assist in managing traffic and help contain the situation

• Avoid approaching if it places you or others in danger

  
  

Working Together to Prevent Incidents

Loose horses pose a serious risk to equine welfare and public safety. Thankfully, many of these situations are preventable with good fencing, secure handling, reliable routines, and awareness of the risk factors.

Keeping horses safe starts with prevention, for their welfare, and for the safety of everyone sharing our roads.