New Jersey Wants to Focus on Distracted Driving Caused by Unrestrained Pets
Posted on Jul 06, 2012
According to ABC News, New Jersey is just one of several other states who want to focus on distracted driving caused by pets. These are drivers who travel with unrestrained dogs and cats.
Distracted driving encompasses a wide variety of activities including:
- talking on the phone;
- texting while driving;
- using a GPS;
- changing dials;
- eating;
- reaching for an object; and
- talking with passengers.
Any activity that causes a driver to take their eyes off the road could be considered a distraction. This includes pets who move about vehicles or especially those who sit on the laps of drivers.
The new law would allow officers to ticket drivers anywhere from $250 to $1,000 for allowing a pet to freely move about a vehicle. New Jersey is just one state considering adopting this new law.
Other states who are considering the new law are Oregon and Rhode Island. Some states already ticket drivers who have pets on their laps including Arizona, Connecticut, Hawaii and Maine.
For drivers who just can’t take to the road without their furry friend, there are restraints available for pets such as harnesses. Or they can be kept inside a cage fitted for a vehicle. These simple solutions not only protect people on the road, but also keep the pets safe.
The law firm of Manfred F. Ricciardelli, Jr. LLC represents good, honest people in work accidents, New Jersey Workers' Compensation cases, Social Security disability claims, and New Jersey car accident claims. Call us at 973-285-1100 today for a free consultation.