Dog owners have been warned that they could face fines of up to £5,000 if they violate obscure driving regulations.
A survey found that more than one-third of British dog-owning motorists are oblivious to the Highway Code requirement.
According to Rule 57, drivers are required to secure their canines using a harness, pet carrier, dog enclosure, or dog guard while in a vehicle.
This is so they cannot distract a motorist or injure themselves or the driver in the event of an abrupt stop.
The regulation states, “When in a vehicle, ensure that dogs and other animals are properly restrained so that they do not distract you while driving or injure you or themselves if you stop abruptly.”
If a driver causes an accident while distracted by their canine, he or she could face a hefty £5,000 fine for careless driving.
Seven million of the total 10.2 million UK dog owners drive with their pets weekly.
Therefore, motorists must familiarize themselves with the information in the Highway Code, particularly if they travel with a companion.
Auto Trader’s research indicates that 34% of dog-owning motorists in the UK are unaware of this important regulation.
Nearly 25% of dog-owning commuters don’t restrain their pets.
56% of those who claim to be current on the requirements of the Highway Code for traveling with a pet knew the correct rules.
The majority of the 44% who answered incorrectly believed that Rule 57 prohibited canines from riding in the front seat or prohibited pets from sticking their heads out the window.
The Canine Car Report found that nearly 25% of dog owners don’t use a harness or cage.
62% of drivers said they were either misinsured or unaware of their policy.
Auto Trader’s Editorial Director, Erin Baker, urged drivers to locate the best dog restraint and use it on every trip.
“Dog-owning motorists must be aware of the Highway Code’s requirements for properly restraining their pets,” he said.
Our dogs are easily distracted by outside events, which can cause road mishaps.
This endangers not only your companion, but also yourself, your vehicle, and others on the road.
‘It is imperative that drivers locate suitable harnesses and pet guards. Whichever restraint their dog responds to best – and use them on every trip, regardless of distance.’
As dogs are readily distracted by events occurring outside the vehicle, their reactions may cause the driver to become distracted, which can lead to road accidents.
The Highway Code requires dogs to be restrained to avoid distracting drivers and injuring them in abrupt stops.
According to a survey conducted by Skoda UK, more than 44 percent of dog owners are unaware that failing to securely secure their pet while driving can result in a fine of up to £5,000 and the invalidation of their auto insurance.
Seven out of ten drivers reported driving more cautiously with their canine in the car. While nearly a quarter reported feeling more stressed.
Every trip, drivers must find and use the best dog leashes and pet guards.
According to research conducted by Adam Spivey, Director, and Master Trainer at Southend Dog Training, it is crucial for your dog’s safety, your safety, and the safety of others that your dog is properly restrained in your vehicle.
He stated that if your dog is not properly restrained in the event of a collision or sudden braking. It will function as a projectile, which could result in a terrible scenario.
Mr. Spivey stated, therefore, that all drivers “must use a very secure seatbelt attachment for your dog.”
The expert explained: ‘The reality is that if you have a collision or have to slam on the brakes and your dog is not properly restrained, then your dog will function as a projectile, which could result in a horrifying scenario and even cause deaths.
“We understand the safety regulations that require a baby to be properly secured in a car seat. We must also understand that the same rules apply to dogs.”
A crash-tested impact crate is the safest method for any dog to travel. The police use them with their canine companions. However, if you cannot do so for whatever reason, you must use an extremely secure seatbelt attachment.’
Other Highway Code regulations dictate what pet-owning motorists may do on the road.
Rule 56, for instance, states that drivers must not release a canine onto the road unattended.
It must be on a short leash when strolling on a sidewalk, road, or path shared with cyclists or horses.
