Don't drive with a pet on your lap
Researchers at the University of Alabama at Birmingham found that drivers 70 and over who regularly drove with their pets had twice the risk of getting into an accident than older drivers who never drove with a pet. (Feb. 16, 2009) Credit: Newsday / Audrey C. Tiernan
Planning a leisurely summer drive? Seniors who take their four-legged best friend along should be extra cautious.
Researchers at the University of Alabama at Birmingham found that drivers 70 and over who regularly drove with their pets had twice the risk of getting into an accident than older drivers who never drove with a pet. What may be most distracting to more mature motorists is keeping the pet in their lap as they drive. The study notes that the practice is not illegal, except in Hawaii, which has a law to specifically prohibit motorists from driving with a pet in their lap.
Keeping dogs or cats in a crate or kennel while driving can help avoid distractions and also keep your pet safer in case of an accident.
