Should Dogs Be Allowed On A Driver's Lap?
Representative Palumbo has again introduced legislation that will prohibit dogs from sitting on the lap of a motor vehicle operator.
Should dogs be allowed on a drivers lap?
One Rhode Island Legislator says the answer is a resounding no.
“I know some people think this is frivolous, but I still believe it is a matter of public safety, for humans and animals alike,” said Representative Peter G. Palumbo (D-Dist. 16, Cranston).
He introduced legislation that would subject violators to an $85 fine for a first offense, $100 for a second and $125 for a third or subsequent offense.
Almost a quarter of drivers that transport dogs allow them to ride on their lap, according to a 2010 survey from AAA.
In addition to the risks it causes other motorists, it could be considered dangerous for the pet.
The auto club claims an unrestrained 10-pound dog traveling at 50 miles per hour flies forward with 500 pounds of pressure in a crash and an 80-pound dog at only 30 mph packs a 2,400-pound punch.
If enacted into law, Rhode Island would be one of the few states to enforce limitations on pets in the car.
In New Jersey, under state law, NJSPCA officers can stop a driver they believe is improperly transporting an animal. Tickets range from $250 to $1,000 per offense, and a driver can face a disorderly person's offense under animal-cruelty laws. Hawaii explicitly forbids drivers from holding a pet on their lap. In Arizona, Connecticut and Maine, distracted-driving laws can be used to charge drivers with pets on their laps.
On the East Greenwich Facebook page, people agreed that the legislation should move forward.
"If you were ever in an accident and the air bag deployed they would be seriously injured or worse," Stephanie Caldwell commented.
"Not to mention that the dog is in the way of your steering wheel and your ability to act in an emergency situation. Your focus is on the dog not driving. Dogs shouldn't be in the front seat if possible ... no diferent than small children," Paula Marcoux commented.
"A 60 lb Airedale in my lap? How would I ever text my friends, apply makeup, and read a book while driving?" joked Dean Benjamin.
The bill has been referred to the House Judiciary Committee.
What do you think? Do you think it should be illegal for a dog to be on a driver's lap?
Angel
11:16 pm on Thursday, January 24, 2013
Do you know how many times a driver has almost run me off the off as they are trying to turn their steering wheel, and the dog is in the way? Let alone, the safety of the dog if that car is in an accident and the airbag deploys...Im sorry, if you cant leave your dog home for a few minutes while you run errands, put him safely in the back of your car, like you would your child.
Mutato
12:00 pm on Friday, January 25, 2013
I think it is illegal in a lot of states already. Forget about the risk to the animal if in an accident. It's another form of distracted driving and has the potential to cause serious harm to driver and others.
That's why they have dog harnesses for them in back seats, as well as carriers locked in rear of SUV's etc...
Dawn Brew
11:50 pm on Saturday, January 26, 2013
Way to waste the taxpayers time and money and all these statistics --why didn't you include the statistics of how many ACTUAL RISKS OR HARM THIS HAS ACTUALLY CAUSED? I don't think this is what the Town of Cranston had in mind when they voted 4 him. I am sure they had their deficits and taxes in mind. Way to skirt the REAL ISSUES.
Dawn Brew
11:56 pm on Saturday, January 26, 2013
if if if ----if YOU SLIP IN YOUR BATHTUB you could be seriously injured. if if if you walk out your front door and go out in the world there are a infinite amount of dangers you encounter. Strolling down main st. with a 6-8lb yorkie on your shoulder at the whopping speed of 15-20 miles per hour is not going to reek havoc on our Universe.