Most states don’t have laws that require dogs to be restrained, but some do so it’s always a good idea to check. Rhode Island, for example, requires pets to be secured with a harness, crate, or in some other way. In other states, drivers may be charged under existing distracted driver laws if a loose pet is the reason they get into an accident. “Those are consistent across the country,” says Wolko. “If you've got a dog that's climbing over your shoulder while you're driving and you get pulled over, the police officer will ticket you for distracted driving no matter where you are.”