Personal injury
Pet-cautions you should take when travelling with a pet this Christmas
Many families will be making travel plans around Christmas and for some, this will mean travelling with a pet in the car. It’s crucial you take appropriate action to ensure animals don’t cause a distraction whilst you’re behind the wheel.
In the upcoming weeks, many families across the country will be making travel plans around Christmas. For some, plans will also include the inclusion of their furry family members and when travelling with a pet in the car, it’s crucial you take appropriate action to ensure animals don’t cause a distraction whilst you’re behind the wheel.
Whilst many owners do take precautions, recent research has revealed that there is still room for improvement. In a survey of over 1000 respondents, only one in four pet owners reported they had some form of precaution in place when they travel with their pet.
Only 40 per cent of people made sure their pet is secured with a harness or carrier, the survey revealed. Highway Code Rule 57 states that when in a vehicle, you must 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.
While breaking the Highway Code doesn't result in direct penalties, non-compliance is evidence of careless driving under the Road Traffic Act 1988. This can lead to an on-the-spot fine, fines of up to £5,000 and 3–9 penalty points if taken to court or possible driving bans for severe or repeated offences.
The survey shows that a third (36%) of people schedule regular stops for their pet, and 17% play calming music, both recommended measures to ensure your pet is comfortable and reduce the risk of them being a distraction in the vehicle.
Jenny Keith, Principal Lawyer at Slater and Gordon, provides further guidance. “As you would with any family member, it is important that you plan beforehand when travelling with a pet. Taking the right precautions can ensure that you not only consider their wellbeing, but also protect yourself and other road users, especially during those lengthier trips you might make during the Christmas holidays,” she says.
“As the research highlights, there are pet owners who are making simple steps, such as securing their pet with a harness or checking ventilation, as well as planning any breaks where they can have food or water. It is crucial that if you’re driving with a pet this Christmas, you are doing everything possible to ensure that you are not distracted and you’re able to concentrate on the drive so everyone can get home safely this Christmas.”
