An Ontario woman was fined after driving in an High Occupancy Vehicle (HOV) lane with her cat as the only passenger. The Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) issued the fine on Highway 417 in Ottawa. The incident occurred on Dec. 19, 2025.

Highway Stop Leads to Discovery

Ottawa OPP stopped the driver after observing her driving alone in the HOV lane. Upon investigation, police discovered the woman was accompanied only by her cat. The driver reportedly believed her cat qualified as a second passenger, meeting the HOV lane requirement.

OPP Clarifies HOV Lane Rules

The OPP East Region clarified the rules regarding HOV lane usage on X, formerly known as Twitter.

“While we all love our pets, they unfortunately do not count towards having a second person in the car with you!”

Fine and Demerit Points Issued

The driver received a $110 fine for the violation. She also received three demerit points, according to the OPP.

• Fine: $110
• Demerit Points: 3

Why This Matters

This incident serves as a reminder of the specific regulations governing HOV lane usage. The OPP’s decision to issue a fine underscores the importance of adhering to these rules, regardless of perceived interpretations. While the driver may have believed her cat qualified as a passenger, the law clearly defines the requirements for HOV lane eligibility.