Drivers could risk a hefty fine and may not even realise they are doing anything wrong.
According to motoring experts at Halfords UK, anyone with a dog in the car must ensure they follow the official rules and regulations. If you don't, you could be fined £5,000 and face a court appearance. Your dog must be suitably restrained, it has been warned. Halfords' guidance said: "While the laws around having your dog in the car have changed over time, Rule 57 of the Highway Code currently states that dogs must be suitably restrained while inside the vehicle."
The official rule 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."
This is to ensure your dog doesn’t distract the driver. It also means they are less likely to injure themselves or others if something happens.
Halfords further warns: "If pet owners fail to adhere to any of these rules when their dog or another type of animal is in the car, it can be considered as ‘driving without due care and attention’ and could result in a £5,000 fine and even lead to a court appearance."
Halfords is not the only expert to warn drivers. RAC Drive stresses turning the airbags off in some situations. And it's something some owners may not consider.
It says: "If your dog is secured in a harness in the front seat, be sure to move the seat as far back as possible and switch off the passenger-side airbag as it may do more harm than good if you have an accident."
What is classed as a suitable restraint?
Halfords explains that the Highway Code doesn’t explicitly require dogs to wear a seat belt or harness in a car. However, the experts recommend restraining animals using appropriate measures, such as a seatbelt harness, pet carrier, dog cage or dog guard.
Make sure you're insured
Halfords advice adds that "even if your pet is suitably restrained, your car insurer won’t pay your vet bills, should your pet be injured inside the vehicle. In this instance, it’s crucial to take out dedicated pet insurance to cover any potential incidents."
And of course, as summer approached, meaning better weather, never leave your dogs inside a hot car. This is extremely dangerous for dogs. If you’re visiting somewhere that’s not dog-friendly, avoid travelling with them or arrange a suitable alternative.
