Accidents caused by pets distracting drivers

As fun as it is to take our canine companion on the road, having a moving distraction on our laps is a major cause for concern. According to a survey conducted by AAA, about 29 percent of drivers admit to driving while distracted by their pets. Just like cell phones and fatigue, driving with a pet can increase the risk of accident and injury.

Despite the fact that there are dozens of devices out there made to safely restrain pets during travel, a notably low number, only 16 percent of drivers, admit to using them. An overwhelming number of individuals surveyed by AAA admit to allowing their pets to roam free in the car or sit on their lap. Unfortunately, allowing an unrestrained dog to play, eat and roam in the car during travel poses a major threat to drivers, their passengers and their furry friends too.

When a distracted driver causes an accident, they may be found negligent for actively neglecting their duty of care to operate a vehicle with care and caution. This may be the case when a driver is distracted by their pet and causes a major accident. It is important for pet owners to take advantage of the countless resources available to securely and safely restrain their companions during travel. Not only are these devices safer for drivers and fellow travelers, but they offer protection to animals in the event of a crash.

Although driving while distracted by a pet is dangerous, there are many who still choose to allow their pets to have free-range of their vehicles while traveling. Individuals that have been injured by distracted drivers may benefit from speaking to an experienced personal injury attorney.