LAKE COUNTY, Calif. – As the spring weather continues, many of the county's equestrians are now enjoying the local trails and routes along rural roads.

The Lake County Horse Council would like to remind motorists of the integral part that horses played as a workforce in agriculture, transportation and many other aspects of early Lake County history.

That history continues directly into the present, in the avid use of horses for recreation and in the thriving industry that supports them.

Many people moved here to raise their children in a wholesome rural atmosphere that includes many equestrian activities.

People ride from their homes to local trailheads or into town. Equestrians have traditionally ridden to Kelseyville, Lower Lake, Middletown and Upper Lake to visit the restaurants and enjoy the street dances and other activities.

Most vehicle drivers are courteous and slow down when they see riders along the road.

Some motorists may not be aware that, when they drive by fast, they may startle a horse.

Other unexpected roadside incidents could also startle a horse into the road, so please slow and be prepared to stop.

Cyclists have equal obligation to slow down and speak to the riders before passing, as their bikes are silent and often surprise and startle horses.

Please note yellow caution signs with a horse and rider symbol and the words "slow for horses" may indicate rural roads where you are likely to see equestrian traffic.
 
Please be aware that riders and horse-drawn vehicles have equal right to the road.

The California Vehicle Code requires all motor vehicles and bicycles to slow down, yield to horses and look to the rider for direction.

CVC 21759 states, “The driver of any vehicle approaching any horse drawn vehicle, any ridden animal, or any livestock shall exercise proper control of his vehicle and shall reduce speed or stop as may appear necessary or as may be signaled or otherwise requested by any person driving, riding or in charge of the animal or livestock, in order to avoid frightening and to safeguard the animal or livestock and to insure the safety of any person driving or riding the animal or in charge of the livestock.”

If someone on horseback indicates to a vehicle the need to slow down or stop to avoid a problem, then the driver needs to respond appropriately.

If the driver fails to respond and an injury occurs, the drive may be found liable for any and all damages that flow from the accident.

It only takes a few seconds of your day to slow down, pass the riders safely and enjoy the rural atmosphere that includes horses as a form of transportation.

The Lake County Horse Council is a 501(c)3 nonprofit.

You can learn more about their organization through its Web site at www.lakecountyhorsecouncil.com or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. .