If you're driving with your dog unrestrained in your vehicle, you could be breaking the law—without even realising it. Many pet owners assume their dog is safe sitting on a seat or in the footwell, but failing to secure them properly could not only put them at serious risk in a crash, but also land owners with a ￡5,000 fine.

       Under Rule 57 of the Highway Code, dogs must be properly restrained in a vehicle to prevent them from distracting the driver or causing an accident. This means using a seatbelt harness, pet carrier, dog crate, or dog guard. Failing to do so could result in a ￡1,000 fine for driving without proper control of the vehicle but if unrestrained dog causes an accident owners could face dangerous driving charges, with fines soaring to ￡5,000 and even a road ban.

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       Pet owner Mark Davies, of Manchester, learned this the hard way when he was fined ￡1,000 after his Cocker Spaniel, Buddy, jumped onto his lap while he was driving.

       Mark admitted he had no idea the law existed, adding: "Buddy usually sits on the seat, but he suddenly jumped up, and I had to swerve slightly.

       "The officer said I was driving without due care and attention, and I got a fine. If I’d known this could happen, I would’ve strapped him in properly."

       If you’re caught driving with an unrestrained dog, police could fine you on the spot for driving without due care and attention.

       If the case goes to court, fines could rise to ￡5,000, and in extreme cases, drivers could face a driving ban or higher insurance premiums.

       The best way to avoid fines, stay within the law and keep your dog safe are:

       - Dog Seatbelt Harness – Clips into the car’s seatbelt system to keep your dog secure.

       - Pet Carrier or Crate – A sturdy way to transport small and medium-sized dogs safely.

       - Dog Guard – Blocks access to the front seats for dogs travelling in the boot.

       - Backseat Hammocks with Clips – Helps keep dogs comfortable while safely restrained.

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       Failing to restrain your pet isn’t worth the risk—a ￡10 seatbelt attachment could save you ￡5,000 and protect your pet’s life.

       A spokesperson for Number 1 Plates, car motoring experts, urged all pet owners to take action before it’s too late:

       "We want to ensure drivers understand the risks and take action before they end up with a fine—or worse, an accident.

       "Securing your dog is a simple step that could save lives. Too many owners think it won’t happen to them, but a moment of distraction is all it takes."