Furry Friends or Driving Hazards? The Risks of Pets in Cars Unveiled
| August 19th, 2024
Driving with your pets can be a delightful experience. However, even this seemingly harmless activity can turn hazardous if pets are not properly secured. In California, 57.2% of households own at least one pet, making it crucial for these pet owners to understand the risks and legal requirements of transporting their beloved animals in vehicles.
Learn how to safely travel with your furry companions, whether taking a quick trip to the vet or going on a cross-state adventure, to protect them and everyone else on the road.
Why Driving With Pets Can Be Dangerous
Driving with pets can introduce several risks that compromise the safety of the animal and the driver. These dangers not only affect the vehicle’s operation but also increase the likelihood of severe consequences in the event of an accident.
- Potential for Distraction: Pets in the car can draw the driver’s attention away from the road, as they might be tempted to pet, feed, or restrain their animals while driving. One study found that drivers with unrestrained pets were distracted more than twice as long as those with restrained pets.
- Interference with Vehicle Controls: Animals, especially unsecured pets, can inadvertently interfere with vehicle controls such as the steering wheel, gear shift, or pedals. Unsafe driving behaviors happen more with unrestrained pets, occurring 649 times compared to 274 times when pets were restrained.
- Increased Risk of Injury in a Crash. Unsecured pets can suffer severe injuries or become projectiles during a crash, increasing the risk of injury to themselves and other passengers. One study determined that an unrestrained 10-pound dog can exert 500 pounds of force in a 50 mph crash, while an 80-pound dog can exert 2,400 pounds of force in a 30 mph crash.
- Obstructed Visibility: Larger pets can block the driver’s view from the rear or side windows or interfere with the rearview mirror. This blockage often happens when pets climb into the driver’s lap or near window areas, preventing them from seeing obstacles, other drivers, or road markings.
California Laws Regarding Driving With Furry Friends
California doesn’t have specific laws requiring all drivers to secure their pets inside the car. Vehicle Code Statute 23117 requires that pets transported in back areas designed for load carrying, like the bed of a truck, must be safely secured, but this might not apply to most drivers.
Although there’s no statewide mandate on restraining pets in standard vehicle compartments, allowing your pet to roam freely can still lead to liability issues. For instance, if you’re involved in a crash caused by your pet distracting you or interfering with vehicle controls, you could be held liable.
Traffic laws mandate that drivers maintain a clear view of the road and pay full attention to their surroundings. If a pet impedes this, it could result in legal consequences and financial liability.
Tips for Properly Securing Your Pet in the Car
Properly secure your pet during car rides to boost safety and calmness. Unsecured dogs have heart rates of seven beats per minute faster than buckled-in dogs. Securing pets in the car leads to slower heart rates for the animals and their owners.
Here are some tips for safe travel with your furry friend:
- Use Pet Seat Belts: Attach specially designed pet seat belts to your pet’s harness and the vehicle’s seat belt system. These restraints keep your pet secure and can help reduce the risk of injury in a crash.
- Crates and Carriers: Use a sturdy crate or carrier secured in the back seat or cargo area. Ensure the crate has adequate ventilation and is large enough for your pet to stand, turn around, and lay comfortably.
- Pet Barriers: Install a pet barrier to keep pets confined to the back seat or cargo area. This prevents them from distracting the driver and interfering with vehicle controls.
- Avoid the Front Seat: Never allow pets to sit in the front seat, as airbags can cause serious injuries. Keep pets in the back seat or cargo area for their safety.
- Frequent Breaks: During long trips, take regular breaks to allow your pet to stretch, hydrate, and relieve themselves. Always leash your pet before exiting the vehicle to prevent them from running into traffic.
- Identification Tags: Ensure your pet wears a collar with updated identification tags, including your contact information. Microchip your pet for an additional layer of security.
Ensure a Safe Journey for You and Your Pet
Driving with pets can be enjoyable and safe if proper precautions are taken. Understand the risks and use appropriate restraint systems to protect your pet and yourself from potential hazards.
If you’re involved in a car accident with your furry friend, our experienced California car accident attorneys at Berg Injury Lawyers can protect your rights and help you seek compensation from the party who caused the crash to pay for any injuries or damages. Contact us today for a free case review.
