25/09/2025
Just a share to spread the message for all our 4 legged friends out there. When you see a horse float don't be stupid near them, Give them room & take it easy.
DRIVING SAFELY WITH HORSE FLOATS!
To drive safely with a horse trailer in Australia, drivers must allow significantly more distance for braking and overtaking, anticipate the trailer's "cut-in" effect on turns, maintain smooth acceleration, braking, and steering, use a lower gear when descending hills, and be extra cautious around corners, intersections, and roundabouts to allow the horses to maintain balance.
It is essential to have wide-view towing mirrors, check your trailer's condition, take regular breaks, and communicate with a spotter when reversing or in tight situations.
Before You Drive-
Check your trailer:
Ensure tyres are in good condition and properly inflated, and the coupling and tow bar are secure.
Use towing mirrors:
These are legally required when towing anything wider than your vehicle and provide necessary visibility.
Practice reversing:
Reversing with a trailer is difficult; consider using a reversing camera or having a spotter to guide you.
Prepare your horse:
Practice loading and unloading to ensure your horse is comfortable and accustomed to the trailer before the journey.
On the Road-
Braking and Overtaking:
Allow for much longer distances for stopping and overtaking to accommodate the trailer's weight and the horses' need for balance.
Smooth driving:
Drive gently and smoothly at all times to prevent sudden movements, which can cause the horses to lose balance and initiate trailer sway.
Cornering:
Slow down well before turns, taking them smoothly and early, especially on roundabouts or sloped surfaces.
The "cut-in" effect:
Be aware that the trailer will take a tighter path into a corner than the car, so allow for this to avoid hitting kerbs or driving into oncoming traffic.
Downhill driving:
Use a lower gear to control your speed and reduce strain on your brakes, preventing brake fade.
Trailer Sway:
If your vehicle has a trailer sway mitigation system, it may automatically engage. Otherwise, take your foot off the accelerator and apply the float brakes separately if possible.
Maintain a wide gap:
Always keep a large following distance from the vehicle in front of you to provide ample space for braking and to allow the horses time to adjust their stance.
When Other Drivers are Involved-
Be patient:
Don't hold up traffic; pull over safely where possible.
Slow down and stay left:
Give other vehicles plenty of room to pass, especially on rural roads where a horse float may take up more than one lane.
Communicate:
If a horse appears agitated, you may need to stop, turn off the engine, and provide the horse with space and time to calm down.
We all need to share the Roads safely and responsibly and with due Care.
Hannah’s Blue Butterflies Road Safety Awareness Inc.
