There are roughly 78 million pet dogs in the US alone. That's a staggering number. And while a dog used to be just a weekend/evening companion, nowadays dogs are take-everywhere accessories which mean they also end up in the car with us. And that's where the problems start.
As cute and cuddly as they are (though sometimes rather drool-y) they're responsible for some pretty distracted driving as 18% of 1,000 motorists (and dog owners) admitted in a survey conducted by AAA and Kurgo that they reach into the back seat to interact with their dog while they're driving. Another 17% admit they let their furry passengers sit in their laps while they drive, while 13% feed them treats or food. And we don't even want to reveal the percentage of drivers who take photos of their dogs while they are driving – yes, driving.
For all the laws we now have surrounding cell phone use and handsfree sets and all that jazz, isn't a living, breathing, furry thing somewhat more distracting?
Only 16% of respondents admit to using some form of pet restraint in their car (as in a doggy seatbelt of basket to keep the dog in one place). What those other 84% of dog-loving drivers don't realize is that their pooch is in peril should there be an accident. Unrestrained dogs can be gravely injured or cause injury to others in the car in an auto accident.
So, next time you bring Fido in the car, consider buckling him up for his own safety and the safety of others on the road with you.
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As cute and cuddly as they are (though sometimes rather drool-y) they're responsible for some pretty distracted driving as 18% of 1,000 motorists (and dog owners) admitted in a survey conducted by AAA and Kurgo that they reach into the back seat to interact with their dog while they're driving. Another 17% admit they let their furry passengers sit in their laps while they drive, while 13% feed them treats or food. And we don't even want to reveal the percentage of drivers who take photos of their dogs while they are driving – yes, driving.
For all the laws we now have surrounding cell phone use and handsfree sets and all that jazz, isn't a living, breathing, furry thing somewhat more distracting?
Only 16% of respondents admit to using some form of pet restraint in their car (as in a doggy seatbelt of basket to keep the dog in one place). What those other 84% of dog-loving drivers don't realize is that their pooch is in peril should there be an accident. Unrestrained dogs can be gravely injured or cause injury to others in the car in an auto accident.
So, next time you bring Fido in the car, consider buckling him up for his own safety and the safety of others on the road with you.