If you’re thinking of bringing your furry friend along on your next road trip, you’ll want to buckle them in first, according to experts.
While driving with your pet in your lap is not illegal in Michigan, it is actively discouraged by Michigan State Police in their distracted driving prevention tips.
A bill was introduced into the Michigan House of Representatives in 2017 proposing a ban on driving with pets in your lap, though it was never passed.
Restraining your pet or keeping it in a carrier is the best option to protect yourself and your pet on the road, Scott Goodwin Law and Oakland Veterinary Referral Services recommend.
Here’s what to know about Michigan law on driving with your pet.
Is it legal to drive with your pet in your lap?
Yes, there is no law in Michigan banning you from driving with your pet in your lap.
A bill to ban driving with your pet in your lap was introduced in the Michigan House of Representatives in 2017, but failed to move out of committee, per the Michigan Legislature’s website.
What are the risks to your pet?
However, just because driving with your pet in your lap is legal doesn’t mean it’s a safe choice, according to experts.
Michigan State Police advises drivers not to drive with a pet in their lap in its tips to avoid distracted driving.
A pet sitting in your lap can also be dangerous for the animal if an accident occurs. This would place a dog in the line of airbags, and the dog could be moved at a force 40 times its weight in a 25 mph crash, Scott Goodwin Law noted.
How can you safely drive with your pet?
If you bring your pet on a car ride, make sure to place it in a carrier, or for a dog, consider restraining it in a harness or dog-safe seat belt, Scott Goodwin Law and Oakland Veterinary Referral Services advise. This will ensure a smooth, safe drive for you and your pet.
Contact Jenna Prestininzi: jprestininzi@freepress.com.
This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: Is it legal to drive with your pet in your lap in Michigan? See law
Reporting by Jenna Prestininzi, Detroit Free Press / Detroit Free Press
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
