Q: I often see drivers with a dog in their lap and wonder if this is safe. Is there any legal requirement that pets be restrained in moving motor vehicles?
A: Ontario Transportation Ministry spokesperson Bob Nichols advises that there is no specific requirement under the Highway Traffic Act for pets to be belted or restrained in motor vehicles.
However, if a pet is interfering with the driver’s safe control of the automobile, the motorist may be charged with “crowding the driver’s seat” under section 162 HTA and/or “careless driving” under section 130 HTA.
If a collision resulting in serious injury or death occurs, criminal charges could apply.
Ignorance of the law by a person who commits an offence is not an excuse for committing the offence — Section 19, Criminal Code of Canada.
A: Ontario Transportation Ministry spokesperson Bob Nichols advises that there is no specific requirement under the Highway Traffic Act for pets to be belted or restrained in motor vehicles.
However, if a pet is interfering with the driver’s safe control of the automobile, the motorist may be charged with “crowding the driver’s seat” under section 162 HTA and/or “careless driving” under section 130 HTA.
If a collision resulting in serious injury or death occurs, criminal charges could apply.
Ignorance of the law by a person who commits an offence is not an excuse for committing the offence — Section 19, Criminal Code of Canada.
