UK Laws on Driving with Pets in the Car

Making sure your four-legged friend is safe as your passenger is imperative to safe driving. The UK has plenty of rules and guidelines designed to keep you and your pet safe on the road, but how many do you know?

Whether you’re taking your pet for a short trip round the corner to the vets or you're travelling across the country on a road trip with man’s best friend, the same rules apply. With fines of up to £5000, it’s essential that you stay up to date with the laws surrounding having pets in the car and abide by the Highway Code at all times.

In this blog, we will look at the most suitable ways to transport your pet securely and legally. 

What driving laws does the UK have on pets in the car?

In terms of the law on dogs and pets in cars, The Highway Code officially 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. A seat belt harness, pet carrier, dog cage or dog guard are ways of restraining animals in cars.”

In short, you must suitably restrain your pet when you’re driving and not have them in the passenger seat; this is not only for your and your pet’s safety, it is also for the safety of other vehicles and road users around you. 

What classifies as "suitably restrained"?

In order to stay compliant with the Highway Code’s specifications, you’ll need to keep your pet “suitably restrained” — but what does that look like exactly? In this case, “suitably restrained” means the use of a good-quality harness, guard, or crate that can secure your pet. 

However, it should also mean that your pet is secure without infringing on their health and safety. Pets should not be able to wriggle free and they should not be in the passenger seat next to the driver as these are deemed as distractions to the driver. Whilst seen as a common solution, a pet should not be restrained or held by another passenger as pets can unexpectedly jump out free from the passengers arms.  

Safely containing your pet while in the car

When it comes to pet safety, we understand that a one-size-fits-all approach won’t work — literally. The most common restraints used for travelling with dogs in a car are harnesses and belts. These will typically clip in with existing rear seat belt fixtures and will safely restrain your pet across their body. 

For smaller pets such as rabbits, cats and smaller dogs (less than 10kg), you can use a travel cage. Travel cages are best placed in your boot or secured on the rear passenger seats or in the rear footwells — though never at the front due to the risk of injury from an airbag going off should you be involved in an accident. 

Pets can travel in the boot if you have a headrest dog guard between the rear passenger seats and the boot of your car. What’s more, recent innovations in pet travel have meant that there are lots of carriers that are as secure as baby carriers, giving you peace of mind for the safety of your pet. 

Finally, as endearing as it is to see a dog taking in the scenes of the motorway - head sticking out of the window with their tongue flailing in the wind, don’t let them do this. Instead, open a window that is further away from your dog. You don’t want your dog to get injured by dirt and gravel flying into their eyes. 

Am I covered by insurance if I get into an accident with my pet?

If you don’t obey The Highway Code when it comes to safely restraining your pet and you get into an accident, your insurance claims may be invalid and you can face fines of £5000. 

Some car insurance will have policies to protect your furry friends, but it is important that you check your insurance for the precise levels of coverage, if any. Again, your claim may be rejected if it is found that you weren't abiding by UK laws for driving with pets. 

Some pet insurance will cover the cost of veterinary treatment regardless of fault, but it is important to note that an insurer may deny a claim — it depends on the policy wording and the severity of your pet’s injuries. 

Keeping your pet happy and safe whilst travelling

While your pet is in transit, it is important to keep them happy as well as safe and, while there are no explicit laws stating how to do this, there are laws in place to protect animals from abuse or negligence. 

To keep your pet happy and safe, consider the following: 

• Making stops so they can relieve themselves and stretch their legs.
• Consider the weather, whether that is bringing blankets or keeping the aircon on.
• Driving gently, especially if you have a dog in the boot who is injured or old. 
• Make sure they have access to water throughout the journey; it is best not to feed a pet two hours before getting into the car. 

Consider the weather

The most common mistake that drivers make when motoring with their pets in the car is failing to consider the heat during the summer months. Whether you're nipping into the shops for a pint of milk or you’ve got an appointment, do not leave your pet in the car on a hot day as they can overheat easily and the consequences can be fatal. If you must leave your pet in the car, ensure it is only for a couple of minutes, make sure you park in the shade, leave water for them and, if possible, leave cool air conditioning circulating around the car. 

Failing to keep your pet safe whilst unattended in a car may result in you facing criminal charges for animal abuse and neglect. 

Safe driving with Kwik Fit

Safe driving and abiding by the Highway Code is what we’re passionate about at Kwik Fit. For more information and guidance on looking after your car and your passengers (animal or human), check out our blog. 

Need some help with your car? Find your local expert today, or contact us for more information.