Bill Would Make Driving With A Pet In Your Lap Illegal

Distracted driving accidents are often blamed on cell phone use. But the North Carolina General Assembly is taking aim at another potential distraction: your pet.

A new bill would impose a $100 fine on any motorist caught driving with an animal in their lap.

House Bill 73 was filed by Rep. Garland Pierce, a Democrat from Scotland County.

He tells the News and Observer the bill was suggested by one of his constituents.

Pierce believes it's a legitimate public safety concern, as animals can be easily frightened and try to jump out of the vehicle.

There have been a number of fatal accidents involving a driver who had a dog in their lap at the time.

The bill would not restrict pets from riding in other parts of the vehicle.