Distracted Driving and Pets
Image by national museum of american history via Flickr
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 20% of injury car accidents in 2009 involved distracted driving. Cells are typically to blame, but new research shows that we are "driving under the influence of dogs." AAA encourages dog owners to restrain their pets to help avoid an accident:
"It's sometimes a hassle but drivers really should use a pet restraint system every time the pet is in the vehicle," said Chuck Mai, spokesman for AAA Oklahoma. "An unrestrained 10-pound dog in a crash at only 30 mph will exert roughly 300 pounds of pressure, while an unrestrained 80-pound dog in a crash at only 30 mph will exert approximately 2,400 pounds of pressure. Imagine the devastation that can cause to your pet and anyone in its path. Restraints not only limit distractions, but also protect you, your pet and other passengers in the event of a crash or sudden stop."
