(STATEWIDE) Drivers across Wisconsin are being reminded to slow down and stay alert as they share the road with horse-drawn vehicles this spring.
The Wisconsin State Patrol says crashes involving animal-drawn vehicles continue to cause serious harm. In the past five years, 165 crashes have led to 12 deaths and 186 injuries statewide, according to preliminary data.
That’s behind the agency’s “Law of the Month” for May, which focuses on safety for both motorists and people operating animal-drawn vehicles.
“Animal-drawn vehicles often travel below the speed limit, making it essential for all road users to stay aware and be courteous of others,” State Patrol Superintendent Tim Carnahan said. “If you approach one, slow down, use caution, and only pass when it’s safe and legal.”
Horse-drawn buggies and similar vehicles are allowed to use traffic lanes or the shoulder, just like cars. They’re required to display a slow-moving vehicle emblem on the back so drivers can spot them more easily.
State law also requires lighting for visibility, especially at night or during bad weather. That includes a white light on the front, red lights on the back to show the vehicle’s width, and flashing amber lights near the rear edges. The lights must be visible from at least 500 feet away.
People operating animal-drawn vehicles are expected to pull over when it’s safe if they’re moving slowly enough to hold up traffic.
For drivers, the message is simple: give space and don’t rush.
The State Patrol urges motorists to keep a safe following distance and stay patient on rural roads where these vehicles are more common. Animals can be unpredictable, especially when startled by loud noises, so drivers should use the horn sparingly. If an animal appears frightened, state law requires drivers to stop if possible until the situation is under control.
Officials also point to distracted driving as the leading factor in crashes involving animal-drawn vehicles in Wisconsin. They’re reminding drivers to stay focused, slow down, and be ready for sudden stops or turns.
