Horse in distress: Woman turns on the A27 in a traffic jam – there is a risk of a fine!

Horse in distress: Woman turns on the A27 in a traffic jam – there is a risk of a fine!

A shocking event occurred on October 9, 2025 on the A27 between Verden and Walsrode. A 20-year-old driver turned her car with a horse trailer around in a traffic jam because her horse in the trailer became restless. The decision to turn around in the middle of traffic led to police intervention, who stopped the young woman when she had already driven several kilometers along the hard shoulder to the next junction. According to NDR, the police were on their way to a burning car on the highway, which made the situation even more dangerous.

The 20-year-old explained that she called 112 twice during the traffic jam and was given advice to calm her horse or call a vet. However, since the vet couldn't get to the highway, she decided to turn the team around, even though she was aware of the irregularity. After her maneuver, she drove to the next exit at walking speed with her hazard lights on. The police did not consider the procedure to be okay, as forming an emergency lane and remaining in the vehicle is the right choice in such situations. The Verden/Osterholz police station pointed out that the responsibility for the safety of the transport lies with the driver.

New regulations for horse transport

In view of these incidents, it is particularly important to observe the new rules for the transport of horses, which have been in force since January 1, 2025. Drivers of motorhomes over 7.5 tonnes, who have to use a digital tachograph when towing a trailer, are particularly affected. This regulation also affects many equestrian athletes who use large liners with horse trailers. According to pferd-aktuell, drivers must adhere to rest and driving times and need a driver card to document the use of the tachograph.

The new regulations are part of Implementing Regulation (EU) 2016/799, which also sets out precise technical requirements. Failure to comply with these regulations could result in fines of up to 1,500 euros. Another important issue is the toll, which has been in effect since July 1, 2024. Small trucks with more than 3.5 tons must also not be overloaded, as overloading not only results in fines, but can also affect liability in the event of an accident. Insurers can refuse benefits in the event of overloading if this is seen as the main reason for an accident, according to information from pferde.de.

The incidents on the highway and the upcoming regulations underline the responsibility that every driver has when transporting animals. It is crucial to find out about the regulations in advance and to make the right decisions in unexpected situations. The 20-year-old plans to file a regulatory complaint because she felt left alone in her emergency situation, highlighting the emotional and stressful challenges that come with horse transport.