A MAN will face court after he allegedly tested positive to driving under the influence of methamphetamine with a young child on his lap, who he then claimed was in control of the car.

Mount Barker police pulled over the car on North Tce at Littlehampton about 5.30pm on Wednesday after noticing a young child sitting on the lap of the driver.

The driver, a 39-year-old man, tested positive to methamphetamine, police said.

When questioned about his driving, he allegedly stated he wasn’t driving but the child was.

The man was reported for driving in a dangerous manner and failing to ensure the child was wearing a seatbelt. He was issued with a direction not to drive for 24 hours while his drug sample was sent for forensic testing. The Department for Child Protection was also notified of the incident.

Superintendent Mark Fairney, officer in charge of the Hills Fleurieu Local Service Area, said: “This is the height of irresponsible behaviour behind the wheel. The child was under the care of this person who showed a complete disregard for their safety”.

“Not only was the child unsecured in the car but the driver was also allegedly under the influence of methamphetamine.”

The driver will be summonsed to appear in the Mount Barker Magistrates Court at a later date.