Drivers can be fined for having an unrestrained dog in the car. (Image: Getty)
Motorists travelling with a in their car and penalty points on their , according to experts.
Although may appear harmless, and break key
Experts have previously warned that this could result in a £5,000 fine and up to six penalty points on a driving licence.
Unrestrained pets could also become injured, distracting the road user from focusing on the road ahead. Heavy braking could see animals fly forward, causing potential injury, while hanging heads out of a window could risk pooches being hit by debris.
Making sure pets are correctly secured before setting off is a crucial with drivers at risk if caught out.
:
Motorists could get fined £5,000 and issued penalty points for the error (Image: Getty)
Rule 57 of the Code reads: “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.”
Car buyers at have shared their thoughts with many who are concerned about safety.
One motorist said: “Dogs are naturally curious and may find car rides exciting, but allowing them to stick their heads out of the window can lead to severe injuries from flying debris or collisions with roadside objects. Properly restraining your dog keeps them safe and helps reduce their anxiety by providing a sense of security.”
DON’T MISS
Another added: “Unrestrained pets in vehicles are a major safety concern. They can easily become a danger in a sudden stop or collision, putting themselves and other passengers in danger.
“Rule 57 of the Highway Code states you should use appropriate restraints to minimise risk for pets and drivers.”
Previous analysis shows as many as one in five drivers have been in the past.
Richard Evans, head of technical services at , reiterated the importance of the simple rule.
He explained: “It’s a legal requirement to use a pet restraint when driving, and the Highway Code states that when travelling, drivers should either use a restraint or seat belt, a cage/carrier or have a safety guard in the boot of the car.
“If a driver is caught with their pet unrestrained, they could face points on their licence and a fine for driving dangerously.”