Over a third of British drivers who own dogs are unaware of a Highway Code rule that could set them back by £5,000, a survey has found.
According to Rule 57 of the Code, all dogs must be restrained in a vehicle using a harness, pet carrier, dog cage or dog guard.
It states: "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."
If a driver causes an accident because they are distracted by their dog, then they could face a £5,000 fine for careless driving.
But research by car marketplace Auto Trader has found that 34% of UK motorists drivers who own dogs have no idea about the relevant rules.
The poll found that, out of those claiming to be up-to-date on the Highway Code's requirements for driving with pets, only 56 percent knew the correct rules.
Of the 44% who answered wrongly, the majority thought that Rule 57 was either preventing dogs from travelling in the front seat or not allowing pets to stick their head out of the window.
The survey, carried out as part of its Canine Car Report, also found that nearly a quarter of drivers with dogs don't restrain their pooch in a harness or cage.
And on top of this, 62 percent of motorists admitted they either aren’t properly covered by their insurance provider, or weren’t even aware whether they are insured.
The researchers collaborated with Adam Spivey, Director and Master Trainer at Southend Dog Training, for expertise on the best way to restrain pets to avoid hefty charges.
He said: "The reality is, if you have a crash or have to slam on the brakes and the dog is not suitably restrained, then your dog is going to act as a projectile, which could result in a horrible scenario, even causing fatalities.
"We understand the safety regulations of a baby being properly seated in a car; we must understand the same applies to dogs too.
"A crash-tested impact crate is the safest way for any dog to travel - it is something you see the police use with their dogs.
"However, if you can’t do that for any reason then at the very least you must use a very secure seatbelt attachment for your dog.”
Erin Baker, Editorial Director from Auto Trader, urged drivers to find the best restraint for their dog and use them for every trip.
He said: "We know that for many people, four-legged friends are an integral part of day-to-day lives, which is why so many of us want to take them with us wherever we go.
"But it is so important that drivers who are taking their dogs in the car are aware of the Highway Code’s requirements to properly restrain their pets.
"As our dogs can get easily get distracted by things happening outside of the car, their reactions could lead to distracting the driver, which can cause road accidents.
"Not only does this put your pet at risk of, but also yourself, your vehicle and others on the road.
"It's vital that drivers find appropriate harnesses and pet guards – whatever restraint their dog responds best to – and use them for every journey, no matter how far they are travelling.
"We want everyone to be able to enjoy time in their cars with those they love, including their canine companions."
