Overview
- A MoneySuperMarket pet‑insurance expert issued a warning about travelling with unrestrained dogs on Saturday 13 June and regional outlets republished the advisory.
- The Highway Code’s Rule 57 says animals must be suitably restrained so they cannot distract the driver or injure themselves or others in a sudden stop.
- There is no new law on pets in cars but drivers can be prosecuted under broader offences such as careless driving or driving without due care and attention, with media reports citing penalties of up to £5,000 for those offences.
- Insurers may regard a dog that was not properly secured as evidence of owner negligence and could refuse to pay vet bills after an accident, leaving owners to cover costs.
- Practical steps recommended by experts and the Highway Code include using a seat‑belt harness, a well‑fitted crate, a dog guard or harnesses clipped to fixtures or seat belts to reduce distraction and injury risk.