Staying Safe While Driving With Pets

Many people treat their pets as family. They buy presents and treats for their dogs and cats. They take their dogs everywhere, whether it be on a short errand or a long road trip.

While it can be fun to have Fido or Fluffy with us at all times, it can also be distracting, especially if you are behind the wheel. A loose cat or a dog pawing at you can make you lose your focus. You may end up taking your eyes off the road and your hands off the wheel.

Driving with pets can lead to accidents. You and your pet could get injured, which can be devastating. There are safe ways to have your pet in the vehicle with you. Avoid serious accidents with these tips.

Start With Short Trips

Long trips can be scary for a new rider. Start off your dog or cat with short trips around town. Go to the vet, run to the store, or pick up dinner. Once your furry friend starts to feel more comfortable in the car, move up to longer trips.

ID Your Pet

It’s possible for your pet to get loose once you stop. In case you get separated, make sure your pet has a collar with a tag on it. The tag should have your contact information, including current phone number.

Don’t Leave Your Pet Inside

You shouldn’t leave your children inside a car unattended, and the same goes for cats and dogs. The interior of your vehicle can heat up quickly, and so can your pets. Even if you crack your windows, your animals can start panting quickly. Have someone in the vehicle to monitor the pets.

Restrain Your Pets

We all see dogs hanging out car windows, but ideally, your pet should be restrained while in your vehicle. The best option would be to put your dog or cat inside a crate while traveling. Another option is a special pet seat belt. You can also put up a barrier between the front and back seats so that Fido doesn’t try to jump in your lap while you’re concentrating on getting through traffic during rush hour.

Never Put Your Dog in a Pickup Bed

Many dog owners put their dogs in their pickup bed while driving. Whether your dog is leashed or unleashed, it is unsafe. Your dog could jump out and kill themselves as well as cause an accident. Even if your dog is leashed, if they try to jump out, they may strangle themselves.

This practice is not only dangerous but also illegal in some states. Texas does not have a state law that prohibits it. However, some cities such as Houston and Dallas have laws that restrict having pets in the bed of a pickup truck.

Contact a Personal Injury Lawyer 

Pets may be cute and cuddly, but when they’re in your car, they can be a distraction. A needy pet that can’t sit still can be a danger, possibly even causing accidents.

Whether your crash was caused by an annoying pet, distracted driver, or other issue, get the help you need from a Houston car accident attorney from The West Law Office, PLLC. If you have been injured, we will help you handle insurance and legal issues. To get started, fill out the online form or call 281-347-3247.

Source:

americanhumane.org/fact-sheet/remember-safety-while-driving-with-pets/