Driving with man's best friend may be dangerous
A new survey by the American Automobile Association (AAA) and pet products manufacturer, Kurgo, confirms a fact that many RVers already know - that many travelers (80 percent) bring their dogs with them when they're away from home, or just running errands around town. However, the survey also found that many people fail to properly restrain their pets while driving.
The survey suggests that only 17 percent use any form of pet restraint system when driving with their dog. Experts say using a pet restraint system can aid in limiting distractions and helping to protect your pet.
"Restraining your pet when driving can not only help protect your pet, but you and other passengers in your vehicle as well," cautioned Jennifer Huebner-Davidson, AAA national, traffic safety programs manager. "An unrestrained 10-pound dog in a crash at 50 mph will exert roughly 500 pounds of pressure, while an unrestrained 80-pound dog in a crash at only 30 mph will exert 2,400 pounds of pressure. Imagine the devastation that can cause to your pet and anyone in the vehicle in its path."
The survey also found that driving with a dog may cause driver distraction. More than half of those surveyed admitted to petting their dog while driving, while one in five allowed their dog to sit in their lap. Other distracting behaviors drivers admitted to include giving food and water to their dog and playing with their dog.
