Travelling with a pet. Ideas from our Long Beach Auto Body Shop
We know drivers love their pets. Our customers are no exception but what happens when you're in a car accident? There are some dos and don't when driving with a pet. Here's how to keep them safe in your vehicle.
1. Don't let your pet sit in your lap
In California you can legally drive with your pet in the front seat, however it a really bad idea for at least a couple of reasons. OK it’s not illegal but the CA DMV says: Letting your pet walk around the car while you drive can become a "deadly distraction" to you. Worse, if a crash should happen the airbag could harm both you and your furry friend.
2. Don't let your dog stick its head out the window.
It looks super cool when a dog is hanging out of the window of the car next to you, but have you thought about what could happen? Dirt and bugs will hurt your doggy when travelling at full speed and a sudden stop could cause injury.
4. Don't put your pet in the bed of a pickup truck.
Pets can't anticipate and brace for a crash like we can and they're certainly not safe in an unprotected truck bed. An estimated 100,000 dogs die from these injuries in a crash or from jumping or falling out of truck beds. Just don't do it.
5. Don't leave an animal in a parked car. EVER.
In Southern California you should never, ever leave a dog in the car. Temperatures can climb quickly in a closed vehicle and pets will only have minutes to survive. Pets and small children should never be kept in a parked car.
6. Make sure your pet's ID is current.
Does your pet have tags and a microchip? If you're out and about and you dog runs off it might be the only way to be reunited. There are plenty of great people out there who would call the number on a pet's tag and animal shelters can use the microchip information to track you down.
7. Give your pet regular breaks.
Pets get carsick and have to pee too! If you're on an extended trip, stop every hour or two to let your pet get some fresh air and some food and drink. Do not feed pets in a moving vehicle. No one likes being uncomfortable and neither do your pets.
We hope you're never in a car accident with your pet but if you are and need help with your repair and insurance claim, call us for help getting started. We'll look forward to meeting you and your furry friend!
Call 562-426-2639 to schedule your repair today.
