Horse Riders and Road Safety: Essential Guidance for Drivers

Liam Greaney, ADINJC General Council

Introduction

The British Horse Society (BHS) are marking ten years of their Dead Slow campaign – a long-term initiative that seeks to reduce the number of accidents and fatalities involving horse riders on UK roads through educating road users how to correctly pass horses.

Since the campaign’s launch in 2016, the BHS has pushed for greater public awareness when passing horse riders and their key messaging and advice has been incorporated into the 2022 Highway Code.

If you’d like to find out more about the British Horse Society and their Dead Slow campaign, click here to visit their website.

How Can We Help

These beautiful animals have a right to use the road. They will often be ridden by children and deserve our respect and consideration.

Changes in the driving test mean more country roads and greater chances of our learners coming across horse riders on the test.

We should be doing what we can to make sure that our pupils have the knowledge and skills to deal with them properly.

Dealing With Horses On The Road

We need to make sure that people understand that horses have a legal obligation to use the road and not an adjacent footpath.

The Highway Code makes this very clear.

Highway Code Rule 54

You MUST NOT take a horse onto a footpath or pavement, and you should not take a horse onto a cycle track. Use a bridleway where possible. Equestrian crossings may be provided for horse riders to cross the road and you should use these where available (see Rule 27). You should dismount at level crossings where a ‘horse rider dismount’ sign is displayed.
Laws HA 1835 sect 72 & R(S)A sect 129(5)

Source: GOV.UK 

To make this absolutely clear, you cannot expect a horse rider to use a footpath or pavement to get out of the way of a motorist!

When you see a horse on the road take care.

Highway Code Rules 214 and 215 make this abundantly clear.

To pass a horse, you should:

• Slow down to a maximum of 10 mph
• Be patient, don’t sound your horn or rev your engine
• Give them plenty of space – at least two metres
• Drive slowly

For more advice on passing horses on the road, the British Horse Society have published an in-depth article which can be viewed here.

Remember Three Brains

It’s important to remember that there are three brains at work when passing a horse on the road.

The Horse’s Brain

Horses share a common evolutionary instinct to flee from potential threats.

As a result, they can be easily frightened which can lead to them bolting.

This could be due to loud unexpected noises that may have nothing to do with a motorist.

Even the most well-trained horses are still prone to bolting when scared. Some of you may remember several military horses bolting in London a few years ago (Source: BBC News)

The Rider’s Brain

The rider’s brain could be that of a child or rider who is nervous or intimidated by inconsiderate or aggressive driving.

The Driver’s Brain

As always this should be one of care and consideration for vulnerable road users.

It would be prudent for drivers to remember that they could be legally liable and there are an awful lot of dash cams out there.

Liam Greaney
ADINJC General Council

Liam Greaney, ADINJC General Council

Introduction

For driving instructors, potholes don’t just affect safety — they impact vehicle wear, lesson quality and business costs.

What Causes Them?

In the UK, potholes are mainly caused by a combination of water, freeze-thaw cycles, and traffic, along with several key contributing factors which we’ll be covering in this blog.

Potholes typically form through the following cycle:

• Water gets into cracks
• It freezes and expands
• This weakens the asphalt
• The traffic then dislodges the loosened material

Key Causes and Contributing Factors

Water ingress

Water gets into cracks and joints in the road surface, saturating the sub-surface road layers.

Freeze-thaw cycles

• Water in the road freezes
• This expands and widens cracks
• Repeated cycles of this accelerate deterioration

Poor or saturated sub-base/base strength

If the layers beneath the surface are weak or waterlogged, they crumble under traffic.

Traffic loading and fatigue

Heavy vehicles and high traffic volumes apply repeated stress, leading to cracking and eventual collapse.

Inadequate drainage and surface water ponding

Poor drainage allows water to sit on or soak into the road, accelerating damage.

Aging road materials or poor initial construction

Road surfaces harden and crack over time. Weaker mixes or insufficient compaction speed up pothole formation.

Failures in repairs or maintenance

• Ineffective patching or delayed resurfacing can create weak spots that develop into potholes
• Utility works and backfill voids, excavation for utilities can leave voids or poor backfill under the road surface

Ground movement and soil conditions

• Clay soils that swell when wet or shrink when dry, or general settlement
• Tree roots that can lift and crack the surface

De-icing salts and chemical exposure

In some cases, chemical damage and salt ingress can contribute to material breakdown

Who is Responsible

The short answer is it depends on who owns the road. In the UK, potholes are repaired by the body responsible for that road type in your area.

National Highways maintains the strategic road network in England and sets standards for the wider UK.

All other roads (most A, B, C and unclassified roads) are typically maintained by the local highways authority in whose area the road runs – usually your county council or a unitary/metropolitan authority.

How Are Potholes Repaired?

There are key differences between temporary and permanent repairs.

Purpose and duration

Temporary repairs are quick, short-term fixes designed to make the road safe and usable as soon as possible. They typically last from a few weeks to a few months.

Permanent repairs address the underlying damage and restore a durable road surface. These are designed to last several years when properly maintained.

Methods and materials

Temporary repairs:

• Use cold-lay asphalt or quick-setting materials
• Require minimal preparation
• Often involve shallow patching with limited compaction
• May not address deeper structural issues

Permanent repairs:

• Involve deeper work such as full-depth patching or resurfacing
• Use hot-mix asphalt or other durable materials
• Include proper edge bonding and compaction
• May involve repairing or replacing the road base

Depth and preparation

Temporary repairs simply fill the hole to create a smoother surface.

Permanent repairs involve deeper excavation, replacement of damaged layers, and attention to drainage to prevent recurrence.

Ride quality and durability

Temporary repairs may result in a rougher ride and are more likely to fail under traffic and weather conditions.

Permanent repairs are designed to match the surrounding surface and provide long-term durability.

Traffic management and safety

Temporary repairs can be carried out quickly, usually with minimal disruption.

Permanent repairs may require longer traffic management measures but reduce the need for repeated interventions.

Cost and maintenance

Temporary repairs are cheaper upfront and often used as interim solutions.

Permanent repairs involve higher initial costs but reduce long-term maintenance needs.

When each is used

Temporary repairs are typically used when immediate safety is the priority or when potholes are widespread.

Permanent repairs are planned as part of scheduled maintenance when resources allow for a more thorough solution.

Takeaways

Ultimately, it all comes down to one thing: MONEY!

Do we repair cheaply in the short term, knowing that we must spend the money again.

Or do we spend a bit more for long term savings?

An efficient road system is the lifeblood of the economy. Just as we need to maintain our training vehicles, our road infrastructure also requires consistent investment.

Vehicle safety is legally enforced, and drivers are responsible for ensuring their vehicles are roadworthy. At what point is there a legal obligation to maintain the road for the safety of all road users?

Liam Greaney

ADINJC General Council

Sue Duncan, ADINJC General Secretary

Introduction

The Chair of the Transport Committee has written to the Minister for Roads and Buses to find out what is being done to tackle the long waiting times for car driving tests.

The full letter can be viewed below.

 

Key Takeaways

In the letter to Simon Lightwood, Ruth Cadbury expresses deep concern over the “slow and limited progress” made in reducing waiting times for practical tests.

She points to sources showing that waiting times remained “persistently high” throughout 2025 with only a “modest improvement” seen at the start of 2026 – namely the reduction to 21.2 weeks in January (from a previous high of 22.5 weeks).

The National Audit Office reported in December that the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) does not now expect to reach its target waiting time of seven weeks until November 2027.

In the letter, the Chair asks the Minister to confirm whether the DVSA is on track to meet this revised target.

She also asks the Minister about the issue of driving instructors no longer being permitted to book driving tests on behalf of learners, an issue highlighted in the recent NASP letter, and requests information about the use of Ministry of Defence driving examiners to help deliver tests.

Sue Duncan,
ADINJC General Secretary

Sue Duncan, ADINJC General Secretary

Introduction

Amanda Banks was awarded National Driving Instructor of the Year at the recent Intelligent Instructor awards. She has written the following piece about how she feels about receiving the award to say thank you.

Honoured, Grateful and More Determined Than Ever

Receiving the National Instructor of the Year award is something I’m still taking in. To be recognised by Intelligent Instructor in this way means more to me than I can truly put into words. I want to start by saying a heartfelt thank you—not just for the award itself, but for such a fantastic and memorable evening.

I’d also like to extend my sincere thanks to the awards supporter, ADINJC, and those in association DASH Instructor Cover & Derin Driving School. Your support helps celebrate instructors across the industry, and it genuinely means a lot to be recognised as part of that.

Standing in that room, surrounded by so many talented and passionate instructors, was a moment I’ll never forget. It wasn’t just about winning—it was about feeling seen, accepted, and proud to be part of a profession that is moving forward in such a positive and inclusive way.

My journey to this point hasn’t been easy.

As a trans woman, I’ve faced rejection, prejudice, and obstacles simply for being myself. There have been times where doors were closed, where assumptions were made, and where it felt like I had to work twice as hard just to be given the same chance. But through it all, I’ve held onto one thing—my passion for helping people.

That passion is what led me to build Horizon Driving School into something more than just driving lessons.

I wanted to create a safe, welcoming space—especially for those in the LGBTQ+ community—where people can come as they are, without fear of judgement. Because learning to drive isn’t just about the mechanics of the car… it’s about confidence, trust, and feeling comfortable enough to be yourself behind the wheel.

I see the impact of that every day.

When a student feels safe, when they know they’re understood, when they can relax and just be themselves—that’s when real progress happens. Sometimes it’s not even about the driving, sometimes it’s simply about having someone beside you who understands your journey. And that can make a huge difference, both in lessons and in life.

That’s why this award means so much to me.

It’s not just recognition for what I do—it’s recognition for what I believe in. It shows that inclusion matters, that representation matters, and that creating safe spaces within our industry truly makes a difference.

And if anything, this has only strengthened my determination.

To keep supporting my students.
To keep building confidence and safe spaces.
And to keep spreading awareness across the driving instructor profession—one conversation, one talk, one lesson at a time.

Because everyone deserves the opportunity to learn, grow, and succeed as their true self.

Thank you again to Intelligent Instructor, to ADINJC, to DASH Instructor Cover & Derin Driving School for this incredible honour—and for an evening I’ll never forget.

Here’s to continuing the journey together.

Amanda Jayne
Horizon Driving School

Sue Duncan, ADINJC Secretary

Introduction

We recently had an enquiry about the use of medical marijuana and whether people with such a prescription can drive.  We asked around, and thought the answers would be worth sharing more widely.  With grateful thanks to Olly Tayler from The Honest Truth for his help.

Olly says – Basically, you can legally drive whilst using medically prescribed Cannabis provided you are not impaired whilst doing so.

Key Rules for Driving with Medical Cannabis

Do Not Drive Impaired

It is an offence to drive while impaired by any medication, including medical cannabis. If you experience drowsiness, poor coordination, dizziness, or slowed thinking, you must not drive. The responsibility to assess your fitness to drive is ultimately yours.

Follow Medical Guidance

You must adhere to the dosage and directions provided by your specialist consultant and the manufacturer/distributor.

Carry Evidence

Always carry proof of your prescription in case you are stopped by the police. Recommended documentation includes:

• A physical or digital copy of your most recent prescription.
• A letter from your prescribing specialist confirming your patient status.
• Photo ID (e.g., your driving licence).
• The medication in its original, labelled packaging.

Some clinics provide a Medical Cannabis Card that can be scanned by police to verify your prescription.

Inform Authorities (Recommended)

The DVLA (Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency) advises that you inform them of any medical condition or medication that may affect your driving ability. It is also recommended to inform your car insurance company to avoid issues in the event of a collision.

If Stopped by the Police

Stay Calm and Inform

Politely inform the police officer that you are a legal medical cannabis patient and offer to show your documentation.

Cooperate

You may still be asked to perform a “field impairment assessment” (e.g., walking in a straight line) or a roadside drug swab. It is best to comply with these requests, as failing to provide a specimen can lead to separate charges.

Assert Your Defence

If a blood test is required and shows THC levels above the limit, your prescription provides a “statutory medical defence” against the charge, provided you were not impaired at the time of driving.

Seek Legal Advice

If arrested, request a solicitor immediately and inform them of your medical defence.

Important Considerations

Impairment Varies

The effects of medical cannabis (THC) can vary based on dosage, tolerance, and consumption method. Vaping effects may last 2-4 hours, while ingestible forms can last up to 6 hours or more.

Zero Tolerance Law & The Defence

The law has a “zero tolerance” limit for THC, meaning you will likely test positive. The medical defence is crucial to protect you in this situation, but it only applies if you were not impaired.

New Patients

Take extra care when first starting treatment or changing your dosage, and avoid driving until you know exactly how it affects you.

Sue Duncan, ADINJC Secretary

The latest Traffic Safety Roads report (April 2026) is now available to explore in full using the document slider below.

In this month’s update, several key themes stand out, from worsening road conditions and changing driver behaviour to new enforcement technology and evolving road safety policy.

 

Below, we break down the most important insights and what they mean for ADIs and the wider driver training industry.

Vehicle Checks Still Being Ignored, and It Is Costing Drivers

National Highways’ T.R.I.P campaign is a timely reminder that many drivers are still neglecting basic safety checks.

Despite years of messaging, over half of drivers have experienced a breakdown, and nearly a third believe it could have been prevented with simple checks.

For instructors, this reinforces an ongoing responsibility. Learners need to understand vehicle responsibility beyond the driving test. Simple habits such as checking tyres, fuel and planning journeys are still not embedded in driver behaviour.

The Reality of UK Roads and a Growing Safety Issue

The condition of the road network continues to deteriorate.

There is now a £18.6 billion repair backlog, and it could take up to 12 years to resolve. At the same time, a significant proportion of roads have limited remaining lifespan.

This has real implications for driving. It increases distraction, affects vehicle control and reduces confidence, particularly for learners. Instructors should expect road conditions to continue influencing how drivers observe, position and plan ahead.

Where Drivers Are Actually Looking

One of the most important behavioural insights this month is where drivers are focusing their attention.

Many drivers are now looking down at their speedometer or concentrating on the road immediately in front of them to avoid potholes, rather than scanning ahead properly.

This is a critical teaching point for ADIs. Forward planning and effective visual scanning are becoming more important than ever in maintaining safety.

Casualties and Enforcement, and Progress Has Stalled

Recent figures show that casualties on major roads have slightly increased, with 1,931 people killed or seriously injured on England’s strategic road network.

At the same time, motoring offences are at their highest level in over a decade, with speeding accounting for the majority.

There is also growing concern about reduced visible policing and increased reliance on automated enforcement. This creates a challenge where some drivers may rely more on avoiding detection than improving behaviour.

Do Drivers Need Regular Re-testing

There is increasing support for ongoing driver education.

Research shows that 65% of drivers would be willing to take a refresher theory test, yet many do not actively check for updates to the Highway Code.

This reflects what many instructors already see. Qualified drivers often develop outdated knowledge and habits over time. This presents opportunities for refresher training and post-test development.

Tyre Safety and a Preventable Risk

Tyre-related issues remain a major contributor to breakdowns and collisions.

Seasonal campaigns highlight increased stopping distances, reduced grip in wet conditions and the risks of poor maintenance, especially after periods of inactivity.

This reinforces the importance of ensuring that safety checks taught during lessons translate into real world habits.

Technology Is Changing Enforcement and Safety

Several developments highlight how technology is shaping road safety.

New AI-powered cameras are being introduced to detect mobile phone use and seatbelt offences. London’s latest road safety plan includes expanded 20mph zones, more pedestrian crossings and continued investment in cycling infrastructure.

Vehicle safety standards are also evolving. New Euro NCAP protocols will place greater emphasis on driver monitoring systems, crash avoidance and post-crash safety.

These changes indicate that while technology will support drivers, strong core driving skills remain essential.

Is the Points System Still Working

There is increasing debate around the effectiveness of the penalty points system.

Only around half of drivers believe it acts as a deterrent, while research suggests that education-based interventions are more effective at reducing reoffending.

This supports the long-standing view that improving driver understanding and behaviour has a greater long-term impact than punishment alone.

Key Issues Instructors Should Be Aware Of

The report also highlights several ongoing concerns.

Poor motorway lane discipline, particularly middle lane driving, continues to create risk and frustration. Drink driving reoffending remains a problem, and incidents involving school crossing patrols highlight ongoing issues with driver awareness and compliance.

These are all areas where driver attitude and behaviour play a critical role.

Positive Developments

There are also encouraging developments.

E-scooter trials in London are showing strong safety performance and increasing usage. New resources are being developed to support newly qualified drivers, and more road safety guidance is becoming available to practitioners.

Final Thoughts for ADIs

This month’s update reinforces a consistent message.

Road safety is not just about rules. It is about behaviour, awareness and responsibility.

For driving instructors, this means continuing to emphasise observation, planning and decision making, while helping drivers bridge the gap between passing the test and driving safely in the real world.

NASP has written to raise concerns about the potential impact of fuel rationing on driving tests and waiting times across the UK.

With growing risks to fuel supply, the letter warns that any restrictions could significantly reduce test capacity, disrupt driver training, and worsen an already critical backlog. It also highlights the lack of a clear contingency plan and calls for sensible steps to protect the system, including priority fuel access for instructors and examiners.

The full letter can be read below.

Lynne Barrie , MA Driver Training, ORDIT Trainer, ADINJC President

What Does “Association” Mean?

The word “association” in the dictionary means a group of people organised for a joint purpose. It also means a cooperative link between people. This is exactly what the ADINJC is all about. There are other associations and local associations but as I’m sure you’re aware, my interest lies with ADINJC. Why is this?

My Introduction to ADINJC

They were responsible for inviting me into the profession when I first became an ADI. I nervously attended some meetings and conferences I had heard about. Going on your own for a full day takes courage, but I have always believed if you step beyond your comfort zone, you will benefit and improve.

Some members of the committee noticed that I was sitting alone at lunchtime, invited me over and took the time to chat with me and get to know me. Those people became not only colleagues whom I later worked with, but also lifelong friends. Without the ADINJC, this would not have happened.

Support and Representation for Members

An association should be a place you can turn to for up-to-date and relevant information. It should support you if you are unsure about any decisions or if you have questions to ask.

It provides a listening ear and can take your views, along with those of other members, to higher forums and meetings. Points raised by members can be discussed at meetings with organisations such as the DVSA, the Department for Transport, PACTS, or even with government representatives. This helps ensure that your voice and views are heard and recognised.

Protection & Professional Support

An association can also support you if you need help with complaints made against you. We all like to think this will never happen to us, but it can.

Burying your head in the sand is not helpful; being protected is. You can also protect yourself further with PI/PL insurance (Professional Indemnity and Public Liability), which many associations offer.

Training and Professional Development

Associations can help you develop your knowledge and skills through training. In the case of the ADINJC, they offer both free and paid training through workshops and webinars.

They also organise excellent conferences, conventions and exhibitions. These events should not be missed, as they provide opportunities to learn, improve, make friends and meet other like-minded professionals.

Conclusion

If you want to learn, feel supported and understood, have someone to listen to you, and feel part of something larger so that you are not alone, then joining an association is the place to start.

Lynne Barrie
MA Driver Training, ORDIT Trainer, ADINJC President

Lynne Barrie , MA Driver Training, ORDIT Trainer, ADINJC President

Introduction

As an ADI or PDI have you ever asked yourself any of the following questions?

• How can I keep up to date with new information and changes in the industry?
• Where can I go instantly to get professional and confidential help and advice if I need it?
• Who can help if I ever need legal advice?
• How can I meet and interact with other ADIs?
• How can I improve my skills and continue my CPD?
• How can I make sure my views are heard and represented?
• Where can I find discounted services and benefits I can make use of?

To help with any of the above and more, join a national association, and if you have a local one nearby, make sure you are part of that too. It makes good business sense to be part of a national association.

Joining a National Association

As an ADI or PDI, don’t bury your head in the sand and think you will not need one; it is too late when you are in trouble, so be ready.

A perfectly good professional relationship with a client can suddenly turn challenging, with them making claims and threats if they feel something is unfair. You could be reported to the DVSA or the police for your conduct.

To support you, take the stress away and give you professional advice, a national association is there to benefit its members. As a member of a national association, they can help you write important letters, attend DVSA interviews with you, and guide you through a tribunal process, all of which could cost thousands of pounds if handled via a solicitor.

Being part of an association provides peace of mind that reliable help is available.

Benefits of Joining an Association

National associations offer a huge range of support and resources to member ADIs, including:

• Comprehensive professional support on all matters related to your work and business, including Professional Indemnity and Public Liability insurance
• Helplines with regular access
• Specialist assistance on any queries related to clients, the public or any legal or technical advice
• Representation and help at DVSA investigations and tribunal support
• Special member resources and discounts
• CPD to further your development and training courses often at discounted prices, members meetings, face to face and online
• Conferences and events at discounted costs
• Newsletters, blogs and breaking news
• Connections to other members via social media
• Allow you a route to help shape the future and have your say. The associations liaise and attend meetings with DVSA, the Department for Transport and some are members of the Parliamentary Advisory Council for Transport Safety, PACTS.

Key National Associations

There are 3 main national associations that represent and support ADIs. These are:

Approved Driving Instructors National Joint Council (ADINJC)

Telephone: 0800 8202 444
Email: secretary@adinjc.org.uk
Website: www.adinjc.org.uk

Driving Instructors Association

Telephone: 020 8686 8010
Email: help@driving.org
Website: www.driving.org

Motor Schools Association of Great Britain

Telephone: 01787 221020
Email: info@msagb.com
Website: www.msagb.com

The three main associations come together as a joint group called the National Associations Strategic Partnership (NASP) to share ideas, experience and expertise to move the profession forward and tackle key issues. They liaise between the DVSA and ADIs. Their website is www.n-a-s-p.co.uk, where you will find details of their work, the meetings they hold, and reports of those meetings with the DVSA, so ADIs and PDIs can stay up to date.

There is a section on the DVSA website (See link) on national associations and DVSA do encourage ADIs to join one. Many ADIs join more than one and PDIs can join too.

For myself as an ADI a national driving instructors association means having security and being safe and not alone. I have been an ADI for many years and always been part of both a national and local association.

Lynne Barrie
MA Driver Training, ORDIT Trainer, ADINJC President

Sue Duncan, ADINJC General Secretary

Introduction

The sun shone for the ADINJC and Intelligent Instructor Convention on Sunday. But over 200 ADIs were far too busy at the Convention to take any notice!

There was an excellent turnout, with varied and interesting exhibitors to look at and talk to. And some great speakers on a variety of subjects of interest to enhance training and road safety, including Dr Liz Box, Alan Hiscox from the British Horse Society, DVSA representatives and our own Tom Stenson. Sharron Huddleston gave an emotional and inspiring presentation on her campaign for young driver safety following the sad death of her young daughter in a crash driven by a new driver.

We’re extremely proud to partner with our friends at Intelligent Instructor to continually push the industry forward, providing the most important and influential events in the ADI calendar.

You can find a highlight reel of the day below.

Convention Highlights

Sue Duncan, ADINJC General Secretary