A shocking incident on a Southern California freeway has drawn the attention of authorities after a small child was spotted sitting on an adult driver’s lap and holding the steering wheel while the vehicle was moving.
According to information provided to the California Highway Patrol’s Riverside office, the incident occurred at approximately 7 p.m. on Tuesday.
A black Toyota Camry was traveling eastbound on the 60 Freeway near Box Springs Road when the child was seen seated on the lap of an adult male in the driver’s seat.
The child was reported to be holding onto the steering wheel and not wearing a seatbelt.
A front-seat passenger was also seen inside the vehicle at the time.
Authorities were notified of the situation, and the vehicle was last seen moving onto the southbound 215 Freeway.
No additional details about the occupants or any enforcement action were immediately available.
Across the US states, child restraint laws require children to be secured in approved car seats or booster seats that match their age, height and weight.
Drivers who transport unrestrained children can face traffic stops, citations, monetary penalties, and points on their driving records.
