Every day, many Australian drivers commit small traffic infringements without realizing it. These little things may seem insignificant, but fines and demerits come as a surprise. Australia’s road safety laws aim to mitigate distractions and keep drivers focused. Even minor road gestures and little judgments can get you in trouble, especially in the lead-up to police road checks.
Using a Mobile Phone While Driving
Touching a mobile phone while driving is one of the most common and most expensive mistakes a driver can make. Even while stationery at traffic lights, it is illegal in all regions to hold or operate a phone. Fines range from $1,000 to $1,200 and come with four to five demerits. Drivers may only use the phone’s navigation or audio features through voice commands and approved mounts.
Eating, Drinking, and Grooming Behind the Wheel
Authorities can issue fines for “driving without proper control” and applicable laws even state that an individual can be charged for “driving without proper control” if the driver has compromised control for even a few seconds. If a driver is caught switching lanes while gnawing on a burger, sipping a hot drink, or doing anything else that involves losing control of the vehicle, it is even possible to apply fines of $600 and demerit points. Stated laws prioritize keeping both hands on the steering to avoid penalties and accidents.
Unrestrained Pets Can Mean Big Trouble
Unaware drivers may not realize that Australian laws state that a driver must not have a pet on their lap or improperly restrained in the vehicle. Animals must be kept in a way that prevents distraction or injury in a sudden stop. If a driver is caught improperly restraining a dog or even having it on their lap, they may get fines of even $2,000. Pet grooming and relaxing in the vehicle is a distraction that is punishable by law. It is not only to ensure the comfort of the driver and the animal. It is to protect the law.
Distracting the Driver with Excess Singing, Dancing, or Hand Signals
It might seem unimportant, but extreme singing, over the top, or even the use of extravagant hand movements, and even the minor attempts at performing these distractive behaviors, and the distance of control, might wobble with these, may pose a problem when driving. Even the waving at friends, and in the middle of the street, or a few adjustments of the clothing might cause penalties for “the failure to maintain control.” As it is in a risky scenario, the police, with the given discretion, to act, even if there is no prior incident. These, driving with control, flexibility, and concentration is the best way to prevent legal and lawful punishment.
Insufficient Control of the Vehicle with No Indication or Tailgating
There of course there is nothing, and by that, nothing, and it should in no way be minor, the fact of the leading cause to pay of the fines in Australia with as simple actions, sign and control of the vehicle. Triggering a fine, by not indicating with control over the vehicle is at best and no less than 3 hundred, and less than 400. And is worth, be no less than 450, to tailgate the car. Minor actions to be sure, but aggressive driving activity, or even solely defensive driving. Indicates no respect in the driving activity and is a sign more to the problem to the rest of the system or for the system. Respect the distance. Indicate the distance. Control of the car, and no less the fines. Would be worth for sure.
Table: Examples of Common Driving Fines
| Offence | Approximate Fine (AUD) | Demerit Points |
|---|---|---|
| Using a phone while driving | $1,078 | 4–5 |
| Pet on driver’s lap | $2,000 | 3–5 |
| Eating or drinking while driving | $400–$600 | 3 |
| Failing to indicate | $300–$400 | 2 |
FAQ
Q1. Can you eat while drives in Australia?
Yes, as long as it does not become a distraction or a loss of control. Otherwise, you can be fined for “driving without proper control.”
Q2. Is it illegal to touch your phone while stopped at lights?
Yes. You cannot touch or hold your phone if it is not securely mounted and hands-free.
Q3. Can pets ride in the front seat?
Pets can ride in the front sear if they are properly restrained. Having an unrestrained pet in the front seat or on your lap can lead to hefty fines.
