Highway Code means pet owners could be fined £5,000 if their dog or cat misbehaves

Only around a quarter of Brits restrain their dog while driving, according to a report

Pet owners could be risking a hefty fine if they fail to heed a little known rule of the Highway Code. Rule 57 says drivers should make sure their pets are 'restrained' so they cannot distract you while driving or injure you. If a loose pet led to a crash, people found guilty of careless driving could be forced to cough up £5,000.

The full 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."

For people with big dogs, this could mean tying them into the boot with their lead or installing a cage or guard to keep them out of the driver's area. Those with smaller dogs and cats might want to use a pet carrier to make sure they don't leap onto your lap at the worst moment. This is important for passengers' and the pets' safety.

READ MORE: The Highway Code rule that means drivers could be fined £30 for getting too annoyed

Adam Spivey, director and master trainer at Southend Dog Training, said: “The reality is, if you have a crash or have to slam on the brakes and the dog is not suitably restrained, then your dog is going to act as a projectile, which could result in a horrible scenario, even causing fatalities.

"We understand the safety regulations of a baby being properly seated in a car; we must understand the same applies to dogs too."

He recommends a crash-tested impact crate or a secure seatbelt attachment for the dog. The dog restraint's aren't only important to keep them from flying through the windshield, but to ensure they don't start barking when they notice something outside the window. Their reactions could be just as distracting as if they jumped over the seats.

An Auto Trader report into safety rules around driving with pets found one third of British drivers who own dogs are not aware of the Highway Code regarding canine travel. Nearly a quarter admitted they don't restrain their dog while travelling, and only 56 per cent actually selected the right rule despite claiming they were aware of the Highway Code.

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