Do you regularly put your pet in danger? If your pets travel unrestrained in any vehicle, then the answer is “yes”. The idea of keeping your pets safe is not a new one. The Center for Pet Safety (CPS) has undertaken crash tests to determine the effectiveness of pets restraints. But, the reason was not only for your pet safety, but to reduce human injuries as well.
The problem is that in the event of a crash, a loose animal in the vehicle travels forward and becomes a projectile that can injure passengers or go flying through the windshield. So, if the thought of our pet sailing past you gives you chills, then make sure he or she is properly restrained while traveling.
Safe travel for an 8 pound animal is different from transporting an 80 pound Doberman. When it comes to travel safety, size matters. So, decide what type of device is appropriate for your pet.
A pet carrier needs to be strapped inside the car using the vehicle’s seat belt and works well for animals weighing less than 15 pounds. Pets not in a carrier (those above 15 pound) should wear a pet harnesses which is equivalent of a seat belt. There are many options out there so when finding the right equipment, please take into account a combination of pet size, device type, and the individual’s safety record.
In an ideal world, you choose crash-approved safety equipment for your pet. However, driver distraction is a big factor in causing vehicle collisions, and restraining your pet in transit could help you both stay safe.
Angie Mercanti, Commercial Account Manager
Posted in: annapolis insurance agency, car insurance annapolis, community, personal insurance