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    Motorists warned they could be hit with £5,000 fine this Christmas

    1 month ago

    CommentsLifestyleChristopher Sharp Trendswatch Reporter05:00, 25 Dec 2025View 3 ImagesDrivers have been warned they could face a £5,000 fine this Christmas (stock)(Image: Sean Gladwell via Getty Images)British drivers are being warned they could face a hefty £5,000 fine if they don't properly secure their dogs in the car. As thousands of Brits prepare to hit the road for festive family gatherings, many will be joined by their furry friends.However, experts have stressed the importance of properly restraining your pooch to avoid a substantial penalty. Drivers who fail to do so risk an immediate fine of up to £200 and three penalty points. In more serious cases, fines can escalate to a whopping £5,000, nine points on your licence, and even a potential driving ban.Aleksandrs Buraks, head of growth at DiscoverCars.com, has issued a stern warning to drivers, saying: "Whether you're driving across the country with your dog or simply down the road, it's important you follow the rules and laws in place."He added: "There are strict requirements around securing your pet in your vehicle, and breaking them can not only result in a fine - but you risk the safety of yourself, your pet, and everyone else around you."If you're taking your pet with you on a road trip this Christmas, it's essential that you ensure their safety and comfort by providing them with a harness, crate, or another device approved by vets."View 3 ImagesDrivers have been warned over a possible fine (stock)(Image: Catherine Falls Commercial via Getty Images)‌Failing to properly secure a dog in a vehicle is an offence that can be seen as a lack of control or due care and attention. Motorists risk an immediate fine of up to £200 and three penalty points.In more severe cases, fines can reach up to £5,000, nine points, or even result in a driving ban. Insurance companies may also decline to cover the costs of an accident if a dog was not safely restrained, leaving drivers to foot the bill themselves.Meanwhile, The AA, a leading breakdown service, disclosed earlier this year that one in five drivers with dogs were using in-car dog beds, reports the Express.Rule 57 of The Highway Code 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."View 3 ImagesThe AA has issued some guidance to drivers carrying dogs (stock)(Image: Getty)The AA's Shaun Jones issued a warning to drivers about the use of dog beds, stating: "Whilst placing a dog bed in the car may seem like a kind gesture to keep your pet comfy, the issue is that they do not keep your pet secure and safe should you have to break suddenly."Despite some beds having straps to fix them to the rear passenger seat, they are often made from soft, flexible material with no pet restraints, allowing your pet to freely move around the car, so there is a real risk of driver distraction which could end in prosecution for dangerous driving."Shaun further advised that if drivers are going to transport their dogs in their cars, there are safer methods to do so.He went on to say: "Ideally use a travel crate in the boot, or pet guard between boot and cabin to ensure the pet cannot climb onto the passenger seats."If the boot is too small, and the pet must travel in the back seat, always secure them with a harness or seatbelt adapter. Also ensure you have a pet essentials kit in the car, just in case of a breakdown."
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