Driving With Pets
Many pet owners love driving with their pets. However, if not done safely, driving with pets can be very dangerous. Each year thousands of accidents are caused by people driving with unsecured pets in their cars. In some cases, fatality accidents occur. Unsecured pets pose a real danger to drivers, passengers, other vehicles, and to the pet itself. Driving in this manner can be just as distracting as texting or talking on your cell phone while driving, which is against the law in several states.
It can be common, especially in the summer time, to see owners of small dogs such as Chihuahuas, Daschunds, or Shih Tzus or even cat owners to have their pets ride in their lap while driving. Other pet owners let their pets sit unrestricted in the front or rear passenger seats when they are driving. While it may seem like harmless fun for the pet and owner, it is much safer for everyone if the pet is secured. Even under hard braking, a pet could be sent flying forward posing a risk of grave injury to the pet, vehicle occupants, and other vehicles. Make safety a top priority for your pet.
Driving With Unsecured Animals Can Be A Felony
Some dog owners let their dogs roam loose in the back of their pick up trucks. This is very dangerous for the pet and drivers. While there are currently no laws mandating that animals be secured when inside a vehicle, in at least eight states – California, Connecticut, Massachusetts, Nevada, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, and Washington – it is against the law for drivers to have unsecured animals when they are in an open–air area of the vehicle. If you must have your dog in the back of your pick up, be sure it is secured to a tie down point.
Pet Restraint Devices
There are a variety of products to secure pets. The most common is the dog crate or cat carrier. Well–made crates and carriers secure your pet while still providing plenty of airflow and visibility. Make sure you purchase a crate or carrier that fits the size of your pet and that it can be secured to tie down points in your car.
Another way to secure your pet is via a dog harness or seat belt. These devices allow a dog to be seated in the vehicle like any other member of your family but still secured. You would never want a child sitting in your lap while driving so you should never do it with your pet either! Be sure to carefully fit your dog to a seat belt or harness that fits them. Having this safety device also prevents you from worrying about your dog sticking its head out the windows.
Safe Driving With Pets
If you have a larger dog or have a dog that you want to have roam free in the back of your car, consider purchasing a safety gate. These are commonly seen in SUVs or station wagons of dog owners. Not only does the gate help secure and contain the pet to the rear of the vehicle in the event of an accident, it also prevents the pet from jumping forward into other seats causing a real distraction. Safety gates are typically made from metal or plastic bars and cost somewhere between $50 and $100 depending on the size, brand, and model.
Another option is a dog booster seat, similar to a child's booster seat. They provide a comfortable, convenient way to secure your dog while still providing comfort. Booster seats tend to work best with smaller dogs that may not fit as well in a seat belt restraint or large carrier.
Keep Your Auto Insurance Rates Low
Driving with pets can raise your car insurance rates. Safe driving saves lives and can help keep your rates low. Taking your eyes off the road for a few seconds to observe your pet or a pet's sudden movement in a car can result in life changing consequences for people and pets. Drivers need to limit their distractions, and securing a pet is one way to do exactly that. Start saving now and get a free no obligation online car insurance quote from BestCarInsuranceCompanies.net.
