I belong to a rescue unit, consisting of volunteers on horseback. The unit is certified by the state to help find missing people. We do a lot of training, which also consists of riding along roads used by vehicles. The riding helps keep the horses exercized and aware of the different surroundings and noises.

Horses were the first transportation and have the right of way. Riders do have to follow the rules of the road, but the problem is how drivers act when coming upon horseback riders.

Some drivers speed up, or honk the horn. The worst is when a vehicle slows down near the horse, then the driver squeals the tires, evidentally thinking it’s funny to see how the horse reacts. There have also been incidents where drivers throw things at horses when driving by.

Apparently, those people are not thinking of the consequences such actions could have on a rider if thrown from a spooked horse, or from the bill for veterinarian care if the horse is injured.

Drivers need to be courteous and respect the rights of horseback riders.

Rachel Jalbert, Monmouth