Toronto (Jan 26) – A rising trend among selfie enthusiasts could land one in a lot of trouble. The International Drivers Association (IDA) shared the numerous legal issues a ‘harmless’ selfie which got plenty of social media attention could generate.
It’s no secret that the sports car culture is booming in Canada. Statistics Canada reveals the number of luxury sports cars has increased by nearly 60% in the last ten years. But a growing trend among selfie enthusiasts raises red flags: posing with someone else’s sports car.
Canada’s privacy laws, as detailed in the Personal Information Protection and Electronic Documents Act (PIPEDA), offer some of the strictest protections for personal data globally. According to this act, the unauthorized use of someone’s property for a purpose that can bring recognition, benefit, or profit may constitute a breach of privacy rights, the IDA explains in a news release.
Taking a selfie next to someone’s sports car may not seem like a gross violation of their privacy. But when that photo is used to represent wealth falsely or to attract others sexually on a dating app, then the law may look at this differently, the release points out.
“If you take a selfie with a sports car that isn’t yours, and you use it to create the false impression that you are wealthy or successful, you could face potential legal ramifications for misrepresentation,” warns International Drivers Association Motoring Expert Dominic Wyatt.
These might include – cease and desist orders, fines, Lawsuits to claim damages and trespassing issues.
In addition to privacy concerns, posing with someone else’s car could be construed as trespassing. Even if one does not physically touch the vehicle, leaning into its immediate surrounding space for a photo could be deemed an invasion of property.
According to Wyatt, “From a legal standpoint, you are invading someone else’s personal property space without their permission. While it may not be considered a serious offense, the car owner could, in theory, decide to press charges.”
The possible legal sanctions for trespassing would typically be fines, a restraining order and potential jail time for repeat offenders.
Futhermore taking a photo of a car parked in public may not be a legal issue on its surface, but can quickly become one if the photo is used inappropriately or triggers a complaint from the vehicle’s owner.
“Always seek the owner’s permission first,” Wyatt advises. “It’s not just about legal respect; it’s about personal respect, too.”
