Avoid EXPENSIVE Fines by knowing these Obscure Australian Road Rules

Avoid EXPENSIVE Fines by knowing these Obscure Australian Road Rules

by Embertek Team on July 31, 2024 Categories: Regulations and Avoiding Fines

Avoid EXPENSIVE Fines by knowing these Obscure Australian Road Rules

Australia's road rules often spark debate, with both obvious and obscure regulations costing motorists millions in fines annually. One such regulation involves the increasingly common yellow line along the curb, which many drivers may not fully understand.

1. While ignorance might sometimes be advantageous, not knowing this particular rule could result in significant fines—up to $320 in New South Wales, or $514 plus two demerit points if the violation occurs in a school zone.

Similar penalties apply in other states as well.

The NSW Highway Patrol has issued a reminder about the rules regarding school zones, highlighting this regulation. An unbroken yellow line along the curb signifies a 'No Stopping' zone. This means stopping is prohibited at all times, including for drop-offs or pick-ups. Although these lines are found throughout Australia, violations in school zones carry higher penalties.

According to Brisbane City Council, parking on an unbroken yellow line is a common cause of fines for drivers.

 

2. When it comes to overtaking a cyclist across double-white lines, the situation can be complex. "Short answer: yes, with an 'if'. Long answer: no, with a 'but'."

Drivers are allowed to cross white lines to overtake a cyclist if no oncoming traffic is present. However, specific rules govern this maneuver. In Queensland, drivers must maintain a distance of one meter from a cyclist in a 60km/hr or slower zone, and 1.5 meters if the speed limit exceeds 60km/hr. Additionally, drivers must signal their intentions.

If it's not safe to overtake a bicycle, drivers should slow down and wait until it's possible to do so safely.

 

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Source-

9News (2024) ‘Road rules Australia: You might not know, confusing drivers’, 9News. 31 July. Available at: https://www.9news.com.au/national/road-rules-australia-you-might-not-know-confusing-drivers-motorists-safety-news/9b740104-caf1-4909-a5af-bc50185a323d#7 (Accessed: 31 July 2024).
Attanasio, J. (2024) ‘Little-known Aussie road rule could attract a $3700 fine’, Yahoo News Australia. 28 July. Updated 28 July. Available at: https://www.9news.com.au/national/road-rules-australia-you-might-not-know-confusing-drivers-motorists-safety-news/9b740104-caf1-4909-a5af-bc50185a323d#7 (Accessed: 31 July 2024).