Dog owners warned common car mistake could land them £5,000 fine

AN EXPERT HAS SHARED A WARNING TO DRIVERS 09:20, 11 Feb 2025 Drivers who travel with a dog in their vehicle could face a £5,000 fine, an expert has warned. According to the Highway Code,

drivers who allow their dogs to hang their heads out of car windows could face the hefty penalty. Car buyers at BigWantsYourCar.com have shared the importance of properly restraining pets

during car journeys to prevent distractions. A spokesperson has said that this is important to keep the animal safe as well as the driver. GET BREAKING NEWS ON BIRMINGHAMLIVE WHATSAPP They

added: "We strongly advise against letting your dog hang its head out of the car window. "Not only does it suggest that the animal is not properly restrained, posing a serious

distraction to the driver, but it also risks injury to the pet. "Dogs are naturally curious and may find car rides exciting, but allowing them to stick their heads out of the window can

lead to severe injuries from flying debris or collisions with roadside objects. "Properly restraining your dog keeps them safe and helps reduce their anxiety by providing a sense of

security." The spokesperson continued: "Many dogs struggle with car journeys initially, so be sure to help them get accustomed to the car's environment. "Treats can make

a significant difference as it will keep your dog distracted. "Unrestrained pets in vehicles are a major safety concern. Article continues below "They can easily become a danger in

a sudden stop or collision, putting themselves and other passengers in danger. "Rule 57 of the Highway Code states you should use appropriate restraints to minimise risk for pets and

drivers."