AAA Study: Dogs Cause Driving Distractions

MINNEAPOLIS - Cell phones, screaming children, and loud music all cause distractions for drivers. Now, a new study from AAA shows driving under the influence of your dog could be just as dangerous.

Some dogs seem like they’re born to ride in the car, but their freedom is also a big distraction for drivers. Debbie Wright admits riding in the car with her two greyhounds isn’t easy.

Wright said, “One of my dogs almost likes to help me drive. She comes up next to me and … wants to look out the front.”

A study from AAA finds many pet owners are distracted by their pets in the car, and the danger can lead to crashes. About two thirds of dog owners surveyed routinely drive while petting or playing with their pooches, sometimes even giving them food or water.

AAA said if a 10-pound dog is loose in a car and it crashes at 50 miles per hour, the pet could exert 500 lbs of pressure--endangering the pet and anyone in its’ path.

Safety experts recommend pet restraints found at many pet stores. Chuck & Don’s Pet Food Outlet in Bloomington sells restraints. The harness slides on easily over the pet, and snaps into the seatbelt.

Assistant Manager Daniel Nelson said, “The main thing is, they’re going to keep the dog stationary, so they’re not distracting the driver.”

Pet stores also sell dividers, to separate pets in the backseat from the driver in the front seat. The pooches might not like being in the back, but a few minutes of frustration is a small price for a safe ride.