Driving While Holding Animals Will Result in a Fine
You Must Use Safety Devices
[Asia Economy Reporter Lee Gwan-joo] One in four households owns a pet. As we enter the era of 6 million pet-owning households, new social norms are also required. A representative example is pets riding in vehicles and driving.
The Korea Road Traffic Authority announced on the 17th, "When riding in a vehicle with pets, safety rules must be followed for the safety of both the driver and the pet." Especially during the autumn outing season, more attention should be paid to preventing safety accidents when traveling with pets.
The most important rule is that you must not hold a pet while driving. Pets can interfere with the driver's steering control and forward attention. According to the Road Traffic Act, such behavior is subject to a fine of up to 50,000 KRW (for vans).
It is also necessary to be cautious about placing pets in the front passenger seat or back seat without safety devices. Pets may suddenly jump into the driver's seat or jump out of an open window. In the event of a traffic accident, pets are also likely to suffer a severe impact. It is recommended to install pet-specific car seats to prevent such incidents.
A representative from the Korea Road Traffic Authority said, “90% of the external information needed while driving is obtained through the driver’s vision, and holding a pet while driving disperses the driver's gaze, which is equivalent to driving with eyes closed,” emphasizing, “Safety measures must be taken when riding in a vehicle with pets.”
© The Asia Business Daily(www.asiae.co.kr). All rights reserved.
