When Life Gives You Lemons — Call an Attorney

Dog owners have no other option than to ride with their pets under some circumstances. However, the owner is still responsible for making sure that the dog does not become a distraction. There are several ways that the motorist can restrain their animal and if you suffer an accident due to a driver distracted by his dog, you should schedule a consultation with a car accident lawyer as soon as possible.

Ways That Dog Owners Can Restrain Their Dogs

There are various pet restraining systems that can hold a dog in place during a trip. Ideally, a passenger should ride with the driver to also make sure that the dog does not distract the driver. A pet owner should never allow the dog to sit in his lap because this is the most distracting. Leaving the dog in the front passenger seat can be a problem because some dogs will attempt to play with their owners. Even a dog in the backseat can be distracting.

Still, placing the dog in the backseat is the safest location and the rear cargo area is the best if the driver is operating a truck with an enclosed bed. Having the pet unrestrained in the car is not only dangerous for all humans involved but is also dangerous for the pet because dogs are not protected by airbags. 

The Consequences of Distracted Driving

Distracted driving can be one of the worst forms of driving because a driver can easily crash into another vehicle at a high speed. Distracted driving often leads to drivers running red lights and drifting into other lanes. However, you'll need to prove that the driver was distracted by his dog while driving.

In some cases, you might be lucky and the driver may apologize and state that he was distracted by his dog. If this occurs, your car accident lawyer can use this statement when proving that the driver was distracted. Otherwise, you will face a situation of "your word against his" unless you have another witness who saw the dog jumping on the owner or walking around unrestrained inside the car.

Distracted Driving Is a Form of Negligence

Proving that the other driver was distracted can assist when determining who is at fault for the accident. Then, you'll have an easier time winning a fight with the other driver over who is responsible for the accident and whether anyone was negligent at all.

For additional information, reach out to a local car accident lawyer.