National animal charity the RSPCA is backing Surrey County Council's Drive Smart campaign, which includes calling for motorists to behave considerately around horses.
The £1 million campaign was launched jointly by the county council and Surrey Police in September after residents cited anti-social driving as their main concern. It is focused on changing attitudes just as much as tackling criminal acts on the road.
As well as attempting to prevent behaviours not traditionally seen as criminal, including tailgating and poor parking, part of Drive SMART's focus will be targeting those who behave inconsiderately towards horse riders by speeding past them or driving too close.
Serious injury
RSPCA spokeswoman Jo Barr said: "Inconsiderate drivers make horse riders' lives a misery and can cause serious injury to the horse and rider as well as themselves and their vehicles.
"One of my horses was hit by a car that was travelling too quickly along a country road. The horse kicked out and put her hoof through the windscreen but the driver just sped off.
"These types of incidents are regularly being bought to the attention of the RSPCA and drivers need to be educated on the consequences of irresponsible driving. That's why Drive SMART is such a good idea and we are pleased to support it."
Frightening the horses
Jakki Garnham, who owns the Beechwood Riding School in Woldingham, says drivers often ignore her hand signals and roar past, frightening the horses.
She said: "On one occasion I was on the road with a group of children and I got down from my horse to ask a driver to stop but he refused and ended up clipping the back of the horse's leg. Some drivers seem to be distracted and aren't concentrating when they try to pass but horses are living beings and should be treated with respect."
In response to the latest endorsements, Surrey County Council's Cabinet Member for Community Safety Kay Hammond said: "The county council sympathises with horse riders across the county and is delighted that the RSPCA has shown its support for our campaign.
"Not only is bad and inconsiderate driving dangerous, it is also damaging to people's quality of life. The campaign aims to educate motorists on the potential consequences of thoughtless driving."