While there are millions of dog owners in the UK not all are aware of the little-known driving rule which can result in hefty fines and even penalty points on driving licenses when you’re travelling with your four-legged companion in the car.
Scores of pet owners tend to opt for dog beds in their cars while driving with their pets, however, this could result in costly fines and long-term motoring damages.
A recent nationwide survey by breakdown experts The AA has revealed one in five (20%) drivers with dogs are using dangerous in-car dog beds, putting their cherished pets at risk and facing fines of up to £5,000.
Indeed, Google searches for ‘dog bed for car’ have surged by 23% over the past three months as pet enthusiasts seek ways to ensure maximum travel comfort for their pampered pooches. However, prioritising comfort over compliance could leave drivers susceptible to fines, penalty points, and even prosecution.
Which driving rule is being violated?
Rule 57 of The Highway Code stipulates: « 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. »
Despite clear guidelines, pet owners are making mistakes, as Shaun Jones, AA Patrol of the Year, explains: « Whilst placing a dog bed in the car may seem like a kind gesture to keep your pet comfy, the issue is that they do not keep your pet secure and safe should you have to break suddenly.
« Despite some beds having straps to fix them to the rear passenger seat, they are often made from soft, flexible material with no pet restraints, allowing your pet to freely move around the car, so there is a real risk of driver distraction which could end in prosecution for dangerous driving. »
Most common driving risks pet owners are taking
Alarmingly, it’s not just pet beds putting drivers at risk of careless driving, the survey also revealed other dangerous habits, including:
– Nearly one in ten (9%) place their pet in the boot without a guard or restraint.
– Around one in twenty let their pet sit on the back passenger seat without a restraint (6%), let it sit in the passenger footwell (5%) or let it stick its head out of an open window (4%).
– While a small minority let the pet sit on the passengers lap (3%), or let the pet sit on the front passenger seat alone (2%).
– Shockingly, almost a fifth (19%) of drivers are also unaware of any of the penalties for careless driving with pets in the car.
How you could be prosecuted
- For not restraining your pet in the car (Highway Code Rule 57): A fine of £100.
- Driving without due care and attention (Road Traffic Act 1988, Section 3) could result in a fine of £5,000 and 3 – 9 penalty points on your driving licence.
- Dangerous driving (Road Traffic Act 1988, Section 2A) could lead to a driving ban, the requirement to retake your test, and potentially even a custodial sentence.
- Failure to ensure the welfare of animals or causing unnecessary suffering (Animal Welfare Act 2006, sections 4 and 9) can result in fines of up to £20,000 or potential imprisonment for animal welfare issues.
Pet essentials while journeying with dogs
- When driving with your dog, it’s essential to have a safe and well-ventilated crate or carrier in your vehicle.
- Always carry water, food and waste bags in case they’re needed.
- To avoid the risk of escape, leave your pet in the broken-down car.
- It’s also wise to save your vet’s number on your mobile for emergencies and note down the number of a vet at your destination.
- If your vehicle breaks down, make sure you take your pet with you to a safe location, away from any traffic.
Shaun offers some advice for drivers: « Ideally use a travel crate in the boot, or pet guard between boot and cabin to ensure the pet cannot climb onto the passenger seats. If the boot is too small, and the pet must travel in the back seat, always secure them with a harness or seatbelt adapter. Also ensure you have a pet essentials kit in the car, just in case of a breakdown. »
