Drivers with pets on laps risk fines and lives

Drivers who let their pets sit on their laps are risking the safety of all road users – and potentially costing themselves hundreds in fines.

It’s not uncommon to see drivers with small dogs or even cats on their laps, but they may not realise that it’s against Queensland law.

Although it’s not illegal to drive with an unrestrained animal in the car, Queensland legislation makes it clear “a driver must not drive a vehicle if a person or an animal is in the driver’s lap”.

Those who break the law can be slapped with a $260 fine.

Drivers must restrain any animals on the outside of their vehicles, such as in ute trays, or face fines for having an unsecured load.