Were you aware that California has a vehicle code requiring drivers to yield equestrians on horseback? Well, here it is.
21805. (a) The Department of Transportation, and local authorities
with respect to highways under their jurisdiction, may designate any
intersection of a highway as a bridle path or equestrian crossing by
erecting appropriate signs. The signs shall be erected on the highway
at or near the approach to the intersection, and shall be of a type
approved by the Department of Transportation. The signs shall
indicate the crossing and any crossmarks, safety devices, or signals
the authorities deem necessary to safeguard vehicular and equestrian
traffic at the intersection.
(b) The driver of any vehicle shall yield the right-of-way to any
horseback rider who is crossing the highway at any designated
equestrian crossing which is marked by signs as prescribed in
subdivision (a).
(c) Subdivision (b) does not relieve any horseback rider from the
duty of using due care for his or her own safety. No horseback rider
shall leave a curb or other place of safety and proceed suddenly
into the path of a vehicle which is close enough to constitute an
immediate hazard.
Here in Temecula, the Riverside County Department of Transportation and the CHP are working to help improve safety along De Portola Rd here in Temecula. This flashing sign near corner of Anza and De Portola reads “Caution ahead, watch for horseback riders next 2 miles”.
I was glad to see this sign as I headed back to the ranch yesterday afternoon. With the number of local riders and new trail riding businesses in the area we definitely need more drivers to be aware of equestrians. It’s also important that are local equestrians use these crossings and practice safe riding.
Our club, the Rancho California Horsemen’s Association, continues to work to make the area safer for horses and riders. RCHA was the driving force behind the many horse crossings found throughout Temecula’s Wine Country. Below is a card that can be found at many local wineries.
PO Box 891568
Temecula, CA 92589
cell: 951-251-5263
fax: 951-215-2041
DRE: 01833600