Driving Under the Influence of Pets

Officials say: Pets are as dangerous as texting to drivers

A survey released by AAA this week found nearly one-third of dog owners admitted to being distracted when having their animal in the car. Twenty-one percent of drivers allowed their dog to sit on their laps — a big no-no, according to law enforcement officials. And some even admitted to feeding their dog or playing with it while in motion.

"Drivers not only love to bring Fido along, but they also often engage in risky behaviors when man's best friend is along for the ride," said AAA Northern New England spokesman Pat Moody. "Looking away from the road for only two seconds doubles your risk of being in a crash."

Police said DUI-P is just as dangerous as texting. They advise owners to put dogs in a crate and refrain from having them as co-pilots.

"They belong in the back seat, not in the front seat," said Kittery police Sgt. Gary Eaton. "If you have a crate, put them in it."

Eaton said he can remember responding to several accidents stemming from drivers who were distracted by a pet.

A New Hampshire State Police spokesman said while dogs may seem to enjoy sitting on a driver's lap with their head sticking out the window, the risks are not worth it.

"If the dog sees a cat or something that catches his interest, what's going to prevent the dog from leaping out?"

Moody noted an unrestrained dog in a 30 mph crash has the same force as a 2,400-pound projectile.

"Imagine the devastation that impact can cause to your pet and anyone in the vehicle in its path," he said.

Many states, including New Hampshire and Maine, have laws discouraging drivers from playing with pets in the front seat. Fines can be hefty.

Maine's recent distracted driving law can levy up to a $500 fine, while New Hampshire's obstructed and negligent driving statutes can impose a $75-250 fine.

In 2008, California legislators passed a bill that would have imposed a $35 fine for drivers caught with a pet in their lap. It was nicknamed the "Paris Hilton bill" after the hotel heiress was one of several celebrities caught with their dogs in the front seat. Republican Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger eventually vetoed the bill after critics called it an unnecessary government intrusion.

The AAA survey was conducted in conjunction with Kurgo, a Salisbury, Mass.-based business that sells pet travel products. Its "Skybox Booster Seat" for smaller dogs is recommended by AAA for securing the pets on car rides.



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