Ottawa OPP charge a driver found asleep at the wheel on Highway 417 in rush hour, and remind drivers that an autonomous driving feature doesn't replace attention

What happened?

OPP East Region posted the stop on X at 8:46 AM ET on November 11 (OPP East Region on X). Police said an officer saw the driver sleeping while the vehicle was moving on Highway 417 in Ottawa during Tuesday's rush hour. The post included a photo taken from behind the vehicle. The driver now faces a careless driving charge. Official Ontario sources say that, on conviction, careless driving carries a fine of $400 to $2,000 and six demerit points (Highway Traffic Act, s. 130, O. Reg. 339/94, ontario.ca).

OPP reminded drivers that "even though your vehicle has an autonomous driving feature, drivers are still required to pay due care and attention when behind the wheel." The post does not say a feature was engaged on this vehicle, and it does not name a make, model or system, so we're not naming one.

OPP: "Even though your vehicle has an autonomous driving feature, drivers are still required to pay due care and attention when behind the wheel."

What does Ontario's law say about driver assistance?

Ontario's Ministry of Transportation says drivers of vehicles with driver assistance features "are responsible for the safe operation of their vehicles at all times" and "must always remain in control of their vehicle" (ontario.ca). It also says: "The same driving laws apply to you when using driver assistance technologies. Even if your vehicle is equipped with driver assistance technology, always keep your eyes on the road and your hands on the wheel." And: "You are responsible for any traffic incidents or collisions, not the advanced driver assistance systems features."