A third of dog owners break the law when transporting their pet in a vehicle – risking a fine of up to £5,000, according to new research.
Rule 57 of the Highway Code states dogs must be ‘suitably restrained so they cannot distract you while you are driving or injure you, or themselves if you stop quickly’.
But a survey by Halfords shows that 32 per cent of motorists who also own a dog admit they don’t properly secure their pet while driving. The figure rises to nearly half (45%) for young dog owners aged 18 to 24.
When asked why, 43 per cent confessed they did not know it was even a legal requirement.
Meanwhile, 36 per cent claimed that being restrained makes their dog anxious and 25 per cent simply said they think it is unnecessary. In addition, 15 per cent don’t because they like their dog ‘to be able to move around’.
(Image: Getty Images)
Halfords motoring expert David Howells today warned that if their dog is not properly restrained and contributes to an accident, motorists can be hit with a £5,000 fine and their car insurance be invalidated.
Furthermore, an unrestrained dog can be hurled through the air, injuring itself and others in the car.
Mr Howells, said: “It’s a common sight to see dogs sticking their heads out of car windows, and as the research shows, a third of dog owners don’t property restrain them.
“This can be dangerous for both the dog and the passengers in the event of a collision, as well as a potential distraction to the driver.
“Many owners are not aware of the law, but there are hefty fines of up to £5,000 for breaking it on this matter and ignorance of the law is not an excuse.”
Halfords has released the high-end Tavo Pet Car seat, designed to help reduce travel anxiety and make dogs feel more comfortable while being suitably restrained.
The retailer says it is ‘the gold standard when it comes to protection and has been expertly engineered for safety and built to the same standards and safety criteria as child seats’.