Act of Council Anent riding or driving Horses upon the Streets of Aberdeen

This Act of Council dates to 8th April 1761. It is an early dangerous driving bill, regarding 'great Abuses' committed by those driving their horses loose or riding their carts in a fashion that posed hazards to Aberdeen's residents. It notes recent accidents that have befallen children due to horses being driven in a haphazard manner.

The act deals with this by amending an earlier relevant act of 4th October 1750. The new act appends a speed limit, outlawing 'a quick Trott or Gallop' on the burgh's streets. Drivers must now ride their horses quietly and slowly. They must do so or else face a fine of ten pounds for each transgression, along with ten days imprisonment. This was a staggeringly high fine, equivalent to approximately £1,000 in today's money.

The act is signed at the bottom by Robert Thomson, clerk of the Town Council.