In The News

Lap pets behind the wheel getting a no-go

Lawmakers in multiple states are pursuing rules that would address the practice of giving free rein to pets inside cars and trucks.

Hawaii is the lone state to prohibit drivers from allowing animals, people or objects to interfere with their control of the vehicle.

Concern about the distractions caused by pets climbing over and snuggling with their owners as they attempt to navigate city streets and highways has spurred action at the Illinois statehouse.

The state’s Senate Transportation Committee voted 7-3 on Tuesday, May 1, to advance a bill to prohibit car and truck drivers from permitting pets to sit on their laps while behind the wheel. Specifically, it would be a no-no for a driver to “hold an animal in his or her lap while operating a motor vehicle.”

Supporters say that the common distraction poses problems similar to texting while driving. They note that unrestrained pets can be deadly whether they are curled up on a lap, leaning out a window with ears flapping in the wind or resting their chin on a shoulder.

A recent AAA survey found that 56 percent of dog owners have driven while distracted by their frolicking pets. Instead, safety groups recommend that people use restraints on pets to prevent harm not only to the loyal friend, but also to their owners.

The Tennessee House voted 58-30 to advance a similar bill to restrain four-legged passengers. Offending owners could face $50 fines and up to 30 days in the pokey if Fido is found in his or her lap or “between the driver and the driver’s door” while the vehicle is in operation.

The Tennessee Department of Safety estimates there will be 100 violations annually with an average fine of $15.

Rep. Jim Cobb, R-Spring City, told lawmakers that it is a matter of safety, not only for the person driving with their pet but for other people on the roadway.

The lap dog bill has moved to the Senate for further consideration.

Rhode Island lawmakers are also considering limits on furry friends. Offenders found sharing their seat behind the wheel with a pet would face $85 fines.

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