Original Article: https://blog.theanimalrescuesite.greatergood.com/fine-for-driving-dog-uk/
As summer rolls around, you may start to notice more and more vehicles driving with furry passengers sticking their heads out the windows.
A lot of dogs love to go for a drive in the sun and let the air from the car hit their faces out of the window.
If you’re a dog lover and you pass a car with a dog peeking its head out the window, your first reaction is probably to smile and enjoy the view. They’re just so cute!
However, if you happen to be driving a canine companion around in the United Kingdom this summer, you may want to be aware of the legalities before you do so. As many organizations are warning, you could be hit with a hefty fine for driving with a dog in the car.
Per Rule 57 of the Highway Code, dogs aren’t allowed to be in a moving vehicle unless they’re properly restrained.
According to Rule 57 of the Highway Code, dogs and other animals must be suitably restrained, for example in a crate or seat belt harness, for safety in emergencies and to prevent the driver from being distracted. Drivers who break the code face a fine up to £5000. pic.twitter.com/NvbER6BXi8
— Advocates for Animals | Solicitors (@Animallawyersuk) February 22, 2022
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 safely restraining animals in cars.”
Fines for violating the Highway Code range from £1,000 up to £5,000 per violation.
In an interview with The Metro, Nick Zapolski, founder of Choose My Car, warned about how dangerous it can be to drive with an unrestrained dog in the car.
He said: “Not only can it be very distracting, in the event of a crash, a loose dog flying through the air could be fatal.
The safest option is to have your dog belted into the back seat, as the passenger seat airbags could also cause your pooch serious harm in the event of an accident. The belts are inexpensive to buy, and simple to use. Most of all, they will keep you and your dog safe, while saving you from the serious implications of breaking the Highway Code.”
Dogs Trust also issued advice for traveling with dogs, suggesting motorists to closely follow the Highway Code.
Did you know that it is against UK law to drive a car if your pet is not suitably restrained? Rule 57 of the Highway Code advises that “A seat belt harness, pet carrier, dog cage or dog guard are ways of restraining animals in cars” 🐶🐱 #dogs #cats pic.twitter.com/zBhQFhkUp1
— White Cross Vets (@WhiteCrossVets) March 5, 2019
White Cross Vets also issued a reminder of the law on Twitter, saying:
“Did you know that it is against UK law to drive a car if your pet is not suitably restrained? Rule 57 of the Highway Code advises that “A seat belt harness, pet carrier, dog cage or dog guard are ways of restraining animals in cars.”
Source: The Animal Rescue Site Blog
