Some drivers could be at risk of receiving a fine of up to £5,000 if they have their pet cat or dog in a vehicle with them. Keeping your pets in your car while you're driving could pose a safety risk and could even increase your risk of being in an accident.
By law, all animals must be properly secured when travelling in a moving vehicle to prevent distractions and potential accidents. Failing to follow this regulation could result in a £1,000 penalty or even prosecution, where fines can escalate significantly.
Rule 57 of the Highway Code states: "When in a vehicle make sure dogs or other animals are suitably restrained so they cannot distract you while you are driving or injure you, or themselves, if you stop quickly. A seat belt harness, pet carrier, dog cage or dog guard are ways of restraining animals in cars."
If your matter progresses to court, you could face penalties of up to £5,000 for an unrestrained animal. You might also be handed up to nine penalty points on your licence, which for newly qualified motorists in their first two years could mean losing your licence entirely.
Most British insurance policies permit pets in vehicles, as long as they are properly restrained. If an unrestrained pet is discovered during an insurance claim, it may invalidate the policy and potentially cause legal complications, as you were not technically covered at the time of the incident.
Moreover, while comprehensive insurance generally covers the driver and any passengers involved in a road accident, it typically does not extend to animals in the car. However, there may be exceptions depending on the specifics of your cover policy.
Reducing risk of accidents with pets in cars
If you need to transport your dog or other pet in your vehicle, you can significantly lessen the risk by ensuring they are properly restrained. The Highway Code suggests that a dog cage, dog guard, or a well-fitted seat belt harness are all effective and acceptable methods of restraining an animal in a vehicle.
Furthermore, keeping an animal in the backseat can also reduce the likelihood of driver distraction and could even be safer for the pet itself, as they could be harmed by an airbag in the front seat in the event of an accident.
