In recent years, the bond between humans and their furry companions has grown stronger than ever. For many, pets are not just animals; they are cherished family members. This closeness between pet owners and their four-legged friends has led to an increase in the number of pets accompanying their humans on car rides. However, ensuring the safety of both pets and all road users is of paramount importance. It is crucial to understand that road safety rules are in place for a reason, and they apply to pet travel as well.
It’s important to remember that pets, just like humans, can be at risk when travelling in a car. Unrestrained pets can easily become distractions to drivers, which can lead to crashes and injuries. To ensure the safety of both you and your pet, it is crucial to utilise appropriate restraints while driving.
A properly secured pet is less likely to cause distractions to the driver and is better protected in case of a sudden stop or crash. The force of a crash can lead to severe harm to unrestrained pets, putting their lives in danger. Pets must be secured to prevent them from becoming projectiles in a crash. An unrestrained pet can become a dangerous missile during a crash, endangering not only the animal but also the driver, passengers, and other road users.
In NSW, the main road rule governing pet transportation states, “A driver must not drive a motor vehicle if the driver is in control of the motor vehicle while an animal is in the driver’s lap.” This rule emphasizes the potential distraction and danger of having an animal on the driver’s lap.
In addition, “A driver must not drive a vehicle unless the driver has proper control of the vehicle”. If a dog or other animal in a car prevents a driver from maintaining proper control of their vehicle for any reason, the driver will be breaking this rule. This could include a driver holding or moving an animal on the front seat with one hand.
The proper restraint of pets ensures their safety and that the driver can maintain focus on the road and significantly reduces the risk of crashes. Distracted driving is a leading cause of crashes, and a pet moving freely within the vehicle can pose a considerable risk. By using restraints, you help reduce the potential for crashes and contribute to the safety of everyone on the road.
For those taking longer journeys with their pets, ensuring their comfort and well-being is crucial. Adequate ventilation, food, and water are essential to keep pets comfortable. Regular stops for bathroom breaks and exercise will help keep your pet relaxed and happy during the journey.
Additionally, extreme temperatures inside a vehicle can pose a severe risk to your pet’s health, so never leave them unattended in a car. Especially in the hotter months of the year police receive numerous calls regarding this issue and have the authority to break a window or similar to gain entry if the animal is in distress.
Let’s work together to make roads safer for everyone, human and animal alike. By following these guidelines and making good choices when driving with pets, we can ensure that every journey with our furry companions is not only enjoyable but also safe. Prioritizing pet safety on the road reflects our commitment to responsible pet ownership and safety for all.
