Overview

• Under Rule 57 drivers can receive on-the-spot fines up to £1,000, maximum £5,000 penalties, nine licence points and potential driving bans with compulsory retests for travelling with unrestrained animals.
• The Highway Code recommends securing dogs using a seat belt harness, pet carrier, dog cage or dog guard to prevent distractions and minimise harm in rapid stops.
• Experts warn that loose dogs can distract drivers and become dangerous projectiles in collisions, with front seats posing extra hazard due to airbags.
• Research by The Dog’s Trust indicates more than 60% of drivers do not perceive unrestrained pets as a serious risk on the road.
• Choose My Car and other industry voices have issued fresh reminders for motorists to check restraint rules before summer road trips as enforcement steps up.