This weekend saw a tragic car / horse-drawn vehicle accident which has left a 33 year old Wellesley man in critical condition after his horse bolted in front of a passing car causing a collision.
Living in Waterloo Region, especially in the northern half of the Region, it is fairly common for us to see horse-drawn buggies at the side of the road, in parking lots and in traffic. Horse-drawn vehicles require special care and attention from drivers of cars, trucks and motorcycles.
The Ministry of Transportation has a fact sheet dedicated to the safety guidelines. Here are some safety tips for driving around horses:
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Never honk or accelerate suddenly around horses.
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When passing them give them as much space as possible, and only pass them when it is safe to do so.
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If you are coming towards a horse and buggy pull as far right as you can in your lane.
Anytime that you approach a horse and buggy too closely you risk spooking the horse and driving it into your path.
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