Driving With Pets Could Raise Your Insurance Rates
You probably already know that texting or talking on your cell phone while driving increases your chances of being involved in an accident. But did you know that having your pooch in the car could also be a hazard? Thirty-one percent of respondents admit to being distracted by their dog while driving, according to a recent survey by AAA and Kurgo, a pet products company. Taking steps to restrain your dog while you’re driving will not only help prevent accidents, but will also protect your safe-driver record and keep your insurance rates low. Apply for auto insurance quotes to get the best coverage at the best price.
Pet distraction
According to the survey, 59 percent of the respondents said they had participated in at least one distracting behavior with their dog while driving. More than half said they have pet their dog while driving and a little more than 20 percent said they have allowed their dog to sit in their lap. Others admitted to feeding or giving their dog water while driving and some even acknowledged playing with their pooch while behind the wheel. The AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety found taking your eyes off the road for as few as two seconds doubles your risk of being in a crash.
It is hard to determine how many drivers who have been distracted by their pets are involved in accidents. However, a 2009 study showed that if you’re texting while driving, you’re 23 times more likely to have a crash compared to drivers who aren’t distracted. Cell phone users are four times more likely to have an accident, which is about the same rate as drivers who are drunk. Making sure you are not distracted while driving can help you keep your car insurance rates affordable.
Safe-driver discounts
If you have a good driving record, you can ask about a safe-driver discount when you apply for auto insurance quotes. Many insurance companies offer discounts to drivers with clean driving records. If you want to be a safe driver, make an effort to limit distractions while you’re driving. Keep your hands on the wheel and your eyes on the road. Restraining your pet while in the car can help you from being distracted as well as protect your pet from injuries.
Pet Coverage
If you are concerned about your dog being harmed in an accident, you may be able to get additional insurance. Many of the nation’s leading auto insurance providers offer coverage for pets injured in an accident at no extra cost to the policyholder. Some insurance companies provide pet protection as part of your auto insurance collision coverage. Coverage will depend on the insurance company’s policy. Some will reimburse you for as much as $1,000 to pay for vet bills and medications. Before you obtain auto insurance quotes, find out which insurers offer car insurance that cover pets.
Once you have done your research, you are ready to shop around for lower auto insurance rates.
You can call agents in your local area, contact insurance companies directly or use InsuranceQuotes.com to instantly get competitive auto insurance quotes from the nation’s leading insurance providers. Simply fill out a simple online form on InsuranceQuotes.com to find the right insurance coverage at the best possible price. Take the time to protect you and your family today.
