As more technologies become standard in everyday life and people are more and more on the go, multitasking while driving has become the norm on American roads. Automakers, meanwhile, are caught between growing consumer demands for more capabilities and conveniences — and the safety and legal concerns that might encourage auto designers to discourage multitasking.  The list goes on: shaving, changing clothes, fixing hair, eating and texting.

The obvious problem with this trend is that it without a doubt distracts drivers; about 80 percent of all crashes are related to some form of distracted driving, according to the U.S. government.  Car designs have made great strides in making occupants of the car safer in an accident, but they can only do so much.  Furthermore, carmakers battling for sales are turning to convenience and technological features to gain the upper hand. The automakers view is they have a responsibility to provide consumers with what they want; it is the consumer’s job to use these safely. The automakers have taken steps, on their part, to encourage a safer multitask drive. With Navigation systems, none are designed so drivers need to lower their heads more than 30 degrees from a straight-ahead position. Also, many automakers won’t allow front-seat occupants to enter destination addresses manually while the vehicle is in motion.  Including Bluetooth in vehicle design is another way automakers are addressing this issue. Drivers will never stop talking on their phones while in motion, so having hands-free technology available in the car is important.  Voice recognition technology is also making multitasking safer.

Right now four states and the District of Columbia already outlaw the use of handheld phones while driving, and at least 38 states currently are debating bills that would specifically regulate text messaging while behind the wheel, according to the National Conference of State Legislatures. Highway designers are trying to add more rumble strips on highway shoulders to startle those who’ve strayed to the side, and creating greater numbers of safe rest spots along the nation’s roads.

There is a thin line between citizen’s personal property rights and the government’s right to make roads safer.  Add into the mix automakers and the technology industry and there is a lot going on.  Hopefully, in the future a common ground will be found and multitasking, for however we take it, will be safe.

Keep Your Pet Safe While Traveling

It is amazing what people in this country will do for their pets, from spending thousands for medical treatment, to buying bottled water or special ice cream.  One may think that bringing the family pet on a car trip is a great idea – you get to skip asking friends to look after your pet and you can avoid the costs and concerns that go with boarding and kennels.  Yet, traveling with pets in the car takes planning and preparation, and there are special challenges that go along with the trip.

Guidelines for Dogs

Dogs riding in a car should not ride in the passenger seat if it is equipped with an airbag, just like a child should not.  It should never be allowed to sit on the driver’s lap, as this poses a danger to both the driver and their pet.  Dogs should not be allowed to ride with their heads outside car windows, as dirt or debris can enter the eyes, ears, and nose, causing injury or infection.    If they seem to have car sickness, there is a medicine the vet can prescribe that can help this.    Today, there are many vehicle safety products for dogs.  Read more about these below.

Guidelines for Cats

Cats should always be in a cat carrier.  This allows them to feel secure and prevent them from crawling under your feet while you are driving.  Before going on a long trip, take the cat on some short trips around town, if it does not usually ride in a vehicle, or it is especially nervous when riding.

Car Travel Products for Pets

Personalized Pet Car Seat: This is designed for small dogs (less than 10 pounds).  It is an elevated, square carrier that will easily attached to any seat.  This not only allows smaller dogs to be able to see out the window, but there is also a safety harness that will keep him in one place.

Pet Travel Hammock: This could also be called a safety. It attaches to the back of the front-seat headrests and drapes down across the back seats, creating a hammock. This prevents your dog from tumbling onto the floor during quick stops or unexpected swerves.

Travel Harness: This is sort of a seatbelt that fits around the back of a dog’s front legs.  Many models attach to seatbelt buckles, while others tether through the vehicle’s round bar. This protects your dog, and it also prevents a distracted driver, as the dog can no longer be jumping from front to back seats and back again.

Dog Ramp: This ramp is especially useful for older dogs that have a hard time getting around. It allows your pet to enter and exit cars without having to leap, jump, or be lifted.

You must take into consideration your pet’s health, happiness and safety – everything you deal with at home, and these things need to be addressed as much, if not more, while on the road.  Only give small portions of food and water. Plan to stop every two hours for a bathroom break and exercise, which you will need a leash for.   An identification tag should always be on the pet, but in addition put one on that includes a mobile phone number. Bring your animal along on a trip can be convenient and even ‘fun’, as many animals are considered part of the family.  It is easy to make things go smoothly; just come prepared and ready to alter the way you normally travel.  Always pay attention to the pet while on the road.  Be aware of any change in your pet’s appetite, energy, and disposition.