Thousands of drivers are at risk of facing a hefty fine of £5,000 for putting their pets at risk of injury or death when driving. According to a recent survey, more than a third (36%) of pet owners admit to not using pet restraints when driving, which can lead to a significant increase in the risk of accidents.
Almost a fifth (19%) of drivers claim to travel with their pets at least once a week or several times a week, with dogs being the most popular choice (68%) and cats coming in second (27%). However, more than 1 in 5 (21%) pet owners are unsure about the laws surrounding pet restraints when driving.
Driving with Pets: Common Practices
- Not using pet restraints when driving: 36% of pet owners admit to this practice
- Travelling with pets at least once a week or several times a week: 19% of drivers
- Driving with pets on the backseat of their vehicle without any form of restraint: 14% of drivers
- Driving with pets in the front passenger seat without a restraint: 14% of drivers
- Driving with pets on their lap or in the passenger footwell without a restraint: 14% of drivers
- Driving with pets on their lap: 14% of drivers
Drivers also admitted to putting their pets in beds or blankets, and 1 in 7 (14%) said they plan to have their pet sit on their lap when driving. The statistics highlight the lack of awareness among pet owners about the laws surrounding pet restraints when driving.
Experts Weigh in
“Pet restraints are a legal requirement and are important for the safety of all road users. If you’re distracted by your pet when driving, you could be responsible for causing a serious accident. And if your pet is found to be unrestrained, this could result in points on your licence or fines of up to £5,000.” – Alex Kindred, Confused.com car insurance expert
“Spring is officially here, and as the weather improves, many of us will be making the most of the sunshine with trips out and about. But safety should always come first when taking our pets out for the ride too. Not securing your pet properly can be dangerous for you and other road users as it increases the risk of distraction. It could also lead to points on your licence and potentially invalidate your car insurance. And if caught driving dangerously, you could face fines of up to £5,000.” – Rhydian Jones, Confused.com’s car insurance expert
Why Pet Restraints Matter
- Increases the risk of distraction while driving
- Could lead to points on your licence
- Could potentially invalidate your car insurance
- Increases the risk of accidents and injuries to you and other road users
- Fines of up to £5,000 for unrestrained pets
Experts emphasize the importance of pet restraints when driving, highlighting the potential risks associated with unrestrained pets. They stress that it is crucial to ensure pets are properly restrained using a pet seatbelt, crate, or carrier to keep them safe on the road.
Conclusion
Motorists should prioritize the safety of both themselves and their pets when driving. By understanding the laws surrounding pet restraints and taking the necessary precautions, drivers can avoid the risks associated with unrestrained pets.
