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Not harnessing your dog can get you charged with reckless driving
Not harnessing your dog can get you charged with reckless driving

Not harnessing your dog can get you charged with reckless driving

On Behalf of | Jun 23, 2024 | Traffic Violations |

There’s no doubt that distracted driving is one of the leading causes of vehicle crashes. These days, with nearly everyone constantly multi-tasking, all kinds of distractions can get in the way of safe driving. 

While some are illegal (like texting while driving), many others are not – at least not specifically. Take driving with unharnessed pets in the car. 

Just like many types of driving distractions, people are more likely to bring their dogs along with them during the summer. Whether they’re spending the day at the beach, taking a road trip or running a few errands, people will often bring their dogs along. Maybe they’re bringing them to the vet, groomer or daycare.

Dogs can be a distraction – especially when they aren’t buckled in. Some drivers even let their dogs sit in their lap. While this isn’t illegal in Florida (despite efforts by some state lawmakers), it’s certainly unsafe – both for the human and canine occupants. 

The dangers of letting your dog roam free in the car

A dog that isn’t securely buckled in with a car safety belt could be seriously injured or worse if the driver has to come to a sudden stop or any sudden move – even if they aren’t in a crash. (Cats should be kept in a carrier.) Further, looking around to see just where the dog is in the vehicle or can certainly be a distraction. 

If a small dog wanders down on the floor near the pedals, a serious crash could result. In one survey, over 10% of people even admitted to taking pictures of their pets while driving.

The price of reckless or careless driving

While a driver can’t get a citation in Florida, for not securing their dog in the car, the consequences could lead to a reckless driving charge. Reckless driving is defined under the law as driving with “willful or wanton disregard for the safety of persons or property.” That can result in a $500 fine and 90 days incarceration. The penalties increase if it’s not a first offense. Even a “careless driving” violation can cost $500.

If you find yourself facing a reckless driving charge or other violation that you believe was unwarranted, it can help to have legal guidance to review your case and protect your rights.

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