Dog owners: Are you in breach of Rule 57 of The Highway Code?

If you drive in the UK or are currently learning, you will be familiar with The Highway Code – the nation's essential guide to road safety. This manual covers not just vehicle drivers but pedestrians, cyclists, and all road users, explaining legal responsibilities to ensure everyone's safety.

While many memorise key parts of the Code to pass driving tests, it’s common for knowledge to fade over time, especially specific regulations. In particular, many dog owners are unaware or have forgotten Rule 57, a crucial rule on safely travelling with dogs in vehicles. This oversight means that numerous dog owners are unknowingly breaching this safety rule.

Rule 57 concerns the safe restraint of dogs in cars to prevent distractions to drivers and injuries to animals or passengers in sudden stops or accidents.

What Does Rule 57 of The Highway Code Mean for Dog Owners?

Rule 57 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."

While the Code does not specify which restraint must be used, it requires that the dog must be properly secured. Restraints such as seat belt harnesses designed for dogs, pet carriers, cages, or dog guards (barriers that separate the dog from the driver and passenger seats) meet this requirement.

Simple methods like collar leads attached to a seatbelt, or mere luggage guards, are generally considered insufficient to comply with Rule 57.

Why is Securing Your Dog in the Car So Important?

Unrestrained dogs pose serious safety risks. They can distract the driver by moving around, jumping on the driver, or obstructing controls, increasing the risk of accidents.

Moreover, in the event of sudden braking or a crash, an unrestrained dog becomes a dangerous projectile. For instance, a dog weighing around 32kg, like a Labrador Retriever, can be thrown forward with the force equivalent to roughly 100kg at just 30mph. This could result in severe injury or death to the dog and passengers if they are hit.

Securing your dog not only protects them but also reduces legal liability and possible insurance complications if you were involved in an accident while carrying an unrestrained dog.

Recommended Ways to Keep Dogs Secure in Cars According to Rule 57

Authorities including vets, the police, and insurance companies agree on suitable restraint options for dogs, tailored to their size and breed:

• Dog seat belt harnesses: Specially designed harnesses that attach to the car’s seat belt system keep your dog firmly in place.
• Pet carriers or crates: Well-ventilated containers that prevent the dog from moving freely, often used for smaller breeds or nervous dogs.
• Dog cages or crates: Larger, secure cages that fit in the boot area provide safety and prevent distractions.
• Dog guards or barriers: Secure barriers between the boot and passenger area safely confine the dog at the rear of estate cars or SUVs.

These methods keep dogs safe, prevent distractions, and meet the legal obligation of Rule 57.

Potential Consequences for Not Complying with Rule 57

Failing to properly restrain your dog in a vehicle may result in police action for careless or dangerous driving, with fines up to £5,000 and up to nine penalty points on your licence. Additionally, if your dog’s behaviour contributed to an accident, this could invalidate your insurance.
It's vital to understand that while Rule 57 itself is part of the Highway Code and not a criminal law, it can be used in court as evidence against you in driving prosecutions.

Tips for Responsible Dog Travel

• Always choose a restraint suitable for your dog's size and temperament, ensuring it allows comfort but prevents dangerous movement.
• If your dog is new to car travel restraints, introduce the equipment gradually, associating it with positive experiences and rewards.
• Avoid placing your dog in the front passenger seat, especially if there is an active airbag, as this area is unsafe in accidents.
• Regularly inspect your chosen restraint for wear and tear and replace if it no longer fits securely.
• Before long car journeys, plan breaks to let your dog stretch, hydrate, and relieve themselves, reducing stress and discomfort.

Summary: Staying Safe and Legal with Your Dog in the Car

As a dog owner in the UK, your legal and moral duty is to ensure your four-legged friend is safely restrained during travel. Rule 57 of The Highway Code requires suitable restraint to protect drivers, passengers, and pets alike. Using appropriate equipment like dog seat belts, carriers, cages, or guards prevents driver distraction and lowers injury risks in accidents.

Complying with Rule 57 not only keeps everyone safer but also protects you from potential legal penalties and insurance disputes. Regularly refresh your knowledge of the Highway Code and adopt responsible travel habits to enjoy stress-free journeys with your dog.