Driving with Fido Could Increase Your Accident Risk
The American Automobile Association conducted a survey, which found that four out of every five dog owners drove frequently with their dogs, and one out of three admitted that their pet was a serious distraction. Half of the respondents in the survey said they liked to pet their dogs while driving, and 20% allowed their dogs to sit on the lap while driving.
Seven percent actually fed the dog while driving, and 5% admitted to playing with the dog while driving. You don't have to be an Indiana personal injury lawyer to know how dangerous all this is. Only 17 % of the pet owners in the survey said they bothered to use any kind of pet restraint system, like seat belts or booster seats for the dogs.
Fortunately, there are plenty of choices out there for dog owners who want to take their pet along, but want to drive safely too. There are doggie seatbelts for larger dogs that can restrain animals, and prevent them from becoming a projectile in the event of an accident. There are booster seats that are ideal for small-sized dogs. The seats can be strapped to your seat like a child booster seat, and can restrain a small dog much better than a seatbelt. Dog carriers are ideal for really tiny breeds that may not fit into a seatbelt. Make sure that the carrier is not too big or too small for the dog. Besides these, there are dog barriers, hammocks, and personal restraint systems.
Driving with a dog can be an incredible treat for both of you if you take care to be safe.
