Motorists are at risk of being slapped with a hefty £5,000 fine and penalty points on their driving licence for making a simple mistake this Spring. Rhydian Jones, Confused.com’s car insurance expert, stressed that road users taking pets in their vehicle could be at risk due to simple road rules. 

Pets such as dogs must be properly retained before setting off on journeys. Although seemingly harmless, not restraining animals can be a major safety concern with dogs likely to move around a lot, casting a distraction for road users. Experts stressed "safety should always come first despite the excitement of getting out in the sun". Rhydian said: "Spring is officially here, and as the weather improves, many of us will be making the most of the sunshine with trips out and about. But safety should always come first when taking our pets out for the ride too.

"Our research found that 83% of drivers don’t use a restraint when they drive with their pet in the car. 

"Not securing your pet properly can be dangerous for you and other road users as it increases the risk of distraction. 

"It could also lead to points on your licence and potentially invalidate your car insurance. And if caught driving dangerously, you could face fines of up to £5,000.

"To keep your pet safe on the road, make sure they are properly restrained using a pet seatbelt, crate, or carrier."

Motorists can restrain their pets using a range of methods, including a simple seat belt harness. 

A pet carrier, dog cage or dog guard are also common ways of making sure pets are appropriately stored ahead of journeys. 

It's not just human drivers who will benefit from being harnessed up with the pets also less at risk of getting hurt.

Vets4Pets explained: "Accidents happen. Even the most careful of drivers can have a bump, and unrestrained dogs are more likely to injure themselves as well as injure you. 

"The force of a collision can cause unrestrained pets to be thrown around the car, and this momentum can seriously injure both them and anyone in the car. Just like us, seatbelts save lives.”