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Americans love their pets, and as many as 78 million pet dogs are currently in loving homes. Very often, these pets accompany their owners on long drives. What many motorists, however may not realize is that when they are traveling with their pets in their car, they are at serious risk of distractions, possibly even an accident.
A recent survey by the AAA yielded very disturbing results. The survey found that many American motorists frequently drove with their pets in their car, and were frequently distracted by those animals. More than half admitted that they frequently drive with their pets, and pet them while driving. This takes their hands away from the wheel, and is a serious accident threat.
Approximately 23% admitted that they have held the animal while driving, while 19% admitted that they had to frequently restrain the animal and prevent it from coming into the front seat.
Motorists also admitted to engaging in other destructive behaviors, including interacting with the dog in the back seat, allowing the animal in their lap, holding the animal, giving the animal food or treats, or taking photographs of their dog. All of these are extremely distracting behaviors that can increase the risk of an accident.
It is possible to safely drive with your pet in the car. Make sure that your pet is restrained safely. 7 out of 10 of the motorists in the study often drove with an unrestrained animal and a child in the car at the same time. The level of distraction that this combination can cause boggles the mind.
Invest in a pet carrier, pet booster seat, or any other type of pet restraint system depending on the type of animal, its size and weight and ensure that your animal is able to enjoy the ride safely.
