Road safety for horses and riders is to be discussed by MPs in Westminster Hall next Wednesday (14 January) after months of campaigning for improved conditions.The debate aims to raise awareness of near-misses, serious injuries and fatalities, and to explore practical steps to improve safety for equestrians.The debate is backed by the British Horse Society (BHS), the British Horseracing Authority, and road safety campaign Project EDWARD. It follows theHorse and Rider RoadSafety Presentation Bill,which seeks to strengthen protections for equestrians, and MP Lee DillonsEarly Day Motion, calling for urgent action.Horses and riders remain some of the most vulnerable road users, and incidents on rural roads can have life-changing consequences, said Lee Dillon MP, who secured the debate. This debate is a chance for MPs to come together, raise awareness, and push for practical, common-sense measures to protect riders and horses. It is not about blaming drivers; its about making our roads safer for everyone.Alan Hiscox, Director of Safety at the BHS, said the Westminster debate was a significant step for equestrian safety.Were incredibly grateful for Lee Dillons support and are thrilled that this has progressed from the awareness ride we held last May, he told Your Horse.With this debate, along with the second reading of the Road Traffic (Horse and Rider Safety) Bill, we can amplify riders voices and raise awareness of the serious injuries and fatalities our horses face every day. But we cant do this without the help of the equestrian community. Thats why were asking equestrians to write to their local MP, urging them to attend this debate. The more MPs hear from us, the greater the chance that well see promising change towards protecting horses, riders and carriage drivers. Lets keep fighting together.For BHS advice on how to get in touch with your MP and to download a template letter or email, visit their website.The news of the debate comes alongside the Governments updatedRoad Safety Strategy, which was released yesterday (7 January), and has recognised riders as vulnerable road users, marking another step forwards in highlighting the need for safer shared roads.Lead image: Your Horse Library/Lucy MerrellRelated contentWhat is the BHSs Dead Slow road safety campaign?Could not wearing high vis leave horse riders liable in a road accident? Solicitor answersJason Webbs tips for what to do if you meet a loose dog out hackingEssential 12-point checklist for safer and happier hackingThe post Its about making our roads safer for everyone: Rider road safety to be debated by MPs appeared first on Your Horse.