With more than 78 million dogs residing in more than 46 million U.S. homes, an increasing number of furry companions are accompanying families on road trips and daily errands. However, you should know that driving with a dog or cat in your lap can be seriously dangerous for you, your pet, your passengers, and others on the road.

Truth Time: Do You Drive With Your Pet?

AAA and Kurgo, a leading manufacturer of pet travel products, surveyed pet owners who frequently drive with their pets. Out of the 80 percent of pet owners polled, only 17 percent used a restraint system in the car.

As for risky distracting behaviors:

  • 18% admitted reaching into the back seat to interact with their dog
  • 17% admitted holding their dog or allowing their dog to sit in their lap
  • 13% admitted to giving food or treats while driving
  • 3% have taken a photo of their dog while driving

Unrestrained Pets: Flirting with Disaster

People often consider their pet to be part of the family, yet may never think to buckle them up when on the road.

  • During an accident, a 60-pound dog can suddenly become the equivalent of a 2,700-pound projectile
  • Unrestrained pets can be seriously injured or killed if they are thrown from a vehicle
  • Airbag impact can crush pets
  • Frightened pets could bite an emergency responder or escape from the vehicle, run into traffic causing another accident and even run away

Since cats are typically uncomfortable riding in a car or being restrained, its best to keep them in a pet carrier that is also strapped in with a seat belt.

Goldberg Finnegan Law Provides You with Free Legal Help

Goldberg Finnegan takes distracted driving accidents very seriously, which is why our injury attorneys in Silver Spring, MD always fight for the maximum amount of compensation available to our clients. Our attorneys are ready to listen to the details of your claim and set out a plan of action to help you and your family recover the compensation you need.