06/04/2025
In the State of Georgia, there is not a law that states you cannot have your dog wandering in the vehicle or sitting in your lap while driving. Just remember, allowing your pet to do these things is a DISTRACTION!!!
It is important for drivers to avoid all forms of distractions while behind the wheel of a vehicle. An unrestrained pet inside your vehicle may cause you to divert your attention away from the road and potentially cause a serious accident. While it is important that your pet is comfortable, it is also important that your pet does not put you and others in danger.
Here are a few examples of ways that pets can cause a distraction inside the vehicle:
1. Pets moving around the vehicle or climbing on the driver
2. Pets getting near the pedals or under the driver’s feet
3. Driver needing to hold the animal down or even petting the animal
4. Pets barking or making other sounds that cause the driver to turn around.
Here are a few safety tips when driving with your pets:
1. Use a pet restraining system- there are many different types of restraints available. These will also be very helpful if you are involved in an accident. Your pet could be hurt in the accident or scared and run away.
2. Do not let your pet sit in your lap- this can distract you and put the pet in a dangerous position if you are in an accident. If a horn is honked, it can startle your pet and cause you to lose control of the vehicle.
3. Adjust feeding time- feed your pet and limit water intake to a few hours before a long car ride to avoid getting sick.
4. Do not allow your pet to travel with it head out the window- the wind can cause your pet to get grit or debris in its eyes. Flying rocks, sticks or other debris could also hit your pet and cause serious injury.
5. Take breaks- give yourself and your pet a breather.
6. Do not put pets unrestrained in an open truck bed- pets could be seriously injured or killed or harmed by someone else.
7. Do not leash your pet inside the vehicle- unhook your pet's leash so that it does not become a strangulation hazard.