It’s not unusual to spot a dog’s head or nose sticking out of the window of a passing car – having the wind blow through their fur and taking in all sorts of scents. It can be an exhilarating experience, and it’s no wonder they enjoy it.
 
On the other hand, a driver caught with a dog in their lap may be in for an expensive surprise. According to the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP), there isn’t a specific charge for having a dog in your lap, but it could be considered a crowding the driver’s seat charge.
 
Penalties for crowding the driver’s seat
A crowding the driver’s seat charge falls under Section 162 of Ontario's Highway Traffic Act: “No person shall drive a motor vehicle with persons or property in the front or driver’s seat so placed as to interfere with the proper management or control of the motor vehicle.”
 
If convicted, drivers could receive three demerit points added to their driving record, an $85 fine, and any court fees^1,2. If convicted of crowding the driver’s seat in a community safety zone, a designated stretch of roadway by the province with signage, the fine could be $120, plus fees².
 
Should I worry about demerit points?
As previously mentioned, if you're charged with a violation such as crowding the driver's seat, you could receive demerit points added to your driving record, which stay there for two years from the offence date. While demerit points won't directly affect your auto insurance rates, collecting enough can make you lose your driver's licence. Consequently, your insurance company may cancel your auto insurance policy. Any lapses in coverage can also increase your rates in the future.
 
As a driver with a full licence, your licence will be suspended for 30 days if you add 15 or more demerit points to your driving record¹. As a new driver, your licence will be suspended for 60 days if you add nine or more demerit points to your driving record¹. According to the Government of Ontario, you can lose your licence for up to two years if you don’t surrender it. Even though this is the worst-case scenario, it emphasizes the importance of following the rules of the road.
 
How driving with your pet will affect your auto insurance
You have 15 days to dispute the charge when you receive a traffic ticket³. If you don't respond to your ticket, you'll likely be found guilty of the offence, which can increase your auto insurance rates at the time of renewal. The increase is based on the severity of the offence (whether minor, major, or criminal) and the number of tickets and convictions you have on your driving record⁴.
 
Depending on the insurance company, even a minor conviction may increase your rates by as little as 10% to as much as 50%. That said, drivers with a single minor conviction may not see a rate increase for two reasons: their insurance company is lenient, or the driver enhanced their protection with additional optional coverage in the form of a Minor Conviction Protector. Drivers with multiple driving infractions or serious convictions are considered "high-risk" and may find it challenging to save on auto insurance.
 
Ensure your pet is safe
Your pet is part of the family – keeping them properly secured when going for a car ride could save their life and yours. In the event of a collision, anything unsecured inside the vehicle can cause serious injury. It’s highly recommended that you restrain your pet in a carrier, crate, or seatbelt harness in the backseat or cargo area so they're safe and can't interfere with your handling of the vehicle.
 
If you're a current OTIP policyholder, contact us at 1-833-494-0090 to review your existing auto insurance policy and discuss additional optional coverage. If you’re not insured with OTIP and are shopping for auto insurance, call us at 1-888-892-4935 to get a quote and receive a $20 gift card of your choice!
 

1. Government of Ontario – Understanding demerit points

2. Ontario Court of Justice – The Highway Traffic Act Provincial Offences

3. Government of Ontario – Check the status of traffic tickets and fines online or request a meeting to resolve your case

4. Financial Services Regulatory Authority of Ontario – What determines your auto insurance rate

 
Related article: Driving with pets in your vehicle? Here’s what you need to know