You Can Get Fined For Breaking These 7 Quebec Laws This Summer
There are pretty hefty fines for some to them, too.
Let's face it, we all get so excited when summer finally rolls around that it becomes a little easier to forget about the rules. But believe it or not, laws don't go on summer vacation. That's why we looked into Quebec laws that get broken in the summer and how much fines for them could cost you.
Many of us don't even realize we break these rules — or that they're even rules at all — so consider this a little reminder to help you have an excellent Quebec summer!
Wearing headphones while cycling and driving
The law: It is against the law to ride a bicycle with headphones on. For car drivers, the law is a little more flexible, allowing only one earpiece to be worn at a time.
Possible fine: Between $80 and $100 on a bicycle and up to $200 for car drivers.
Driving with a pet on your lap (or anywhere else on you)
The law: "Driving a road vehicle in which an animal obstructs your view or interferes with the proper handling of the vehicle is prohibited," the Highway Safety Code reads. So, don't give your pets too much love while you're behind the wheel.
Possible fine: You could be fined $30 to $60 if the police catch your pet on you while you are driving.
Having an open fire when there is a forest fire hazard
The law: The Société de protection des forêts contre le feu (SOPFEU) issues news releases on preventive measures in effect in certain areas where there is a high danger of forest fires. In an area where there is a ban on open fires, you could be fined a lot of money if you decide to violate the regulations.
Possible fine: The Sustainable Forest Management Act provides for a fine of $500 to $50,000 for those who do not comply with the restrictions.
Drinking alcohol or doing drugs while driving a boat
The law: It is an offence under the Criminal Code of Canada to operate a boat while impaired. Fines are steep for those who choose to drive with more than 80 milligrams of alcohol in 100 millilitres of blood.
Possible fine: On the first offence, you could be fined $1,000. On the second offence, it is a minimum of 30 days in jail and on the third offence, it is a minimum of 120 days in jail.
Wearing the wrong helmet on an off-road vehicle
The law: If you are riding on an off-road vehicle, you must wear a helmet and safety glasses if your helmet does not have a visor. A law enforcement officer may ask you to examine your helmet to make sure it meets regulatory standards. You must also wear shoes.
Possible fine: You could be fined between $150 and $300 if you violate this regulation of the Off-Road Vehicle Act.
Going paddleboarding without the proper gear
The law: As with any water activity, a properly sized flotation jacket is mandatory. You must also bring a whistle and a waterproof flashlight if you are paddling after dark.
Possible fine: You could be fined more than $200 if you violate the rules, according to the Service de police de l'agglomération de Longueuil (SPAL).
Not riding in the designated seats in an off-road vehicle
The law: When an off-road vehicle is in motion, it is forbidden to hold on to or take a seat on any part of the vehicle that is not designed for that purpose. It is also illegal to be pulled or pushed by the vehicle.
Possible fine: You could be fined between $1,000 and $3,000 if you violate this part of the Off-Road Vehicle Act.
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