Tips for Driving Safely With a Pet in Your Vehicle

There are many important things to remember when driving with children, the most important of which is ensuring they’re secured in the right seats for their size and age.

But what about pets? It’s becoming more and more common for pet owners to travel around town with their dogs, cats, and other companions riding shotgun. But as with all vehicle occupants, pets are extremely vulnerable during crashes—and they can also be extremely distracting!

Follow these tips to reduce your and your pet’s risks the next time you take them out on Nashville’s roadways:

• Place your pet inside a size-appropriate carrier—Who doesn’t love the sight of a dog hanging his head out the window of his owner’s vehicle and enjoying the breeze on a warm day? Unfortunately, allowing pets to roam freely in vehicles isn’t just dangerous for them, it can be dangerous for owners, too. Keep your dog, cat, or any other animal contained for their safety.
• Keep pets in the back seat—Even crated pets can be distracting when they’re sitting right next to you. Whether it’s Fido’s barking and scratching, or Garfield’s meowing and pawing, you may be tempted to look at your fluffy friend instead of the road ahead. Keeping pets in the backseat makes it easier to focus on the task at hand.

When pet owners fail to keep their animals secured, they put them at unnecessary risk of serious injuries, and they can even increase their own risk of causing crashes. Were you or someone you love hurt in an accident caused by a negligent driver? If so, the Nashville auto accident lawyers at Ponce Law want to help. Call us today for a free consultation.