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Dog owners face hefty fines after new law comes in across England in March 2026
Rule 57 requires pets to be restrained in vehicles to prevent driver distraction and accidents, with fines up to £2,000 for non-compliance, officials warn.
- The Highway Code's Rule 57 mandates dogs and other animals be restrained using a seat belt harness, pet carrier, dog cage or dog guard to avoid driver distraction or injury.
- Because animals can bolt onto a busy carriageway and create a hazard for other drivers, guidance urges keeping pets restrained or inside the vehicle unless on the verge with a short lead.
- Quoting a motoring-law expert, 'When a vehicle breaks down on a busy road or motorway, the safety of both the passengers and the animal is paramount', and drivers are urged to leave pets in the car during breakdowns.
- Owners face a fine up to £2,000 for failing to restrain pets, so pet owners must follow the vehicle rule to avoid hefty penalties.
- Many drivers remain unaware some Highway Code rules exist, and letting a dog onto a live carriageway could lead to Careless Driving charges under Section 3 or a Section 27 offence for allowing a dog on a designated road without a lead, experts warned.
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Leaning Left0Leaning Right1Center21Last UpdatedBias Distribution95% Center
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C 95%
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