Maybe you thought we over-reacted when we reproached drivers who permitted their dogs to stick their heads out of windows as the vehicles traveled to the park, freeway, Miami. The Seattle Times ran a wire story yesterday that highlighted the dangers of traveling in vehicles with unrestrained pets.The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that 5,474 people in 2009 were killed in accidents involving distracted drivers. Another 448,000 people were injured. While cellphone usage proved the number-one factor, travel with unrestrained pets represented the numbers involving driver distractions that include unruly children, applying makeup and reading.
Lawmakers in Hawaii made driving with a pet in your lap illegal. Oregon solons are contemplating legislation that would fine drivers who held pets while maneuvering vehicles.
The state of Washington has no such law. Legislators, crippled by massive budget shortfalls, probably won't address pet-safety issues.
I saw a big-wheeled vehicle travel down South Genesee Street. An object suddenly rolled out of the window and onto the pavement. Imagine our surprise when we saw the falling object was a little frou-frou dog. The nonplussed passenger stepped out the vehicle, scooped up the dog like it was a UPS package, and returned to the truck,
Don't wait until lawmakers act -- or after it's too late. Keep your dog safe when you drive.
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