The dangers of fogged or misted over windows. Most Australian drivers do not appreciate the dangers fogged or misted windows pose. Having condensation inside, as well as outside, of car windows during cold or humid weather, quickly reduces visibility. Having fogged windows does not seem serious, but it can quickly become a severe safety concern. Driving with limited visibility poses a risk when driving, and in Australia, there are serious fines for driving under these conditions legally.
Driving laws in Australia
The Australian driving laws are clear; a driver must have a clear and unobstructed view of the road at all times. According to the State Road safety authorities, fogged and unclear windows can be equated to driving with obstructed dirty windows. Fines vary from State to State with most ranging from $122 to $350. There are also instances when demerit points are issued. This law applies to all windows and mirrors, not just the windshield.
Potential Costs to Keep in Mind
The costs associated with fines might be on the higher end of budgets; however, the true costs are not just monetary. Driving with an unclear view of the road can cause severe accidents, injuries, or death. In the case of an accident, an insurance company may refuse to pay a claim if lack of visibility is determined to be a factor. Failing to take the proper precautions, like defogging the windows, could result in a moment of negligence that could be financially devastating for a long time.
Quick and Easy Defogging Tips
To avoid fines and, even more crucially, collisions, drivers need to make the habit of defogging windows a priority. Before driving, start the vehicle and run the air conditioning or demister for a minute. Remove and clean the air filter, and remember that the recirculation button is a moisture trap. Driving with a clean, dry microfiber cloth will help avoid accumulation, just be sure to stop driving until there is complete visibility. Some drivers buy anti-fogging spray or put silica gel pads in the vehicle to prevent fogging for a longer period of time.
| Offence | Average Fine (AUD) | Demerit Points |
|---|---|---|
| Fogged or obscured windscreen | $122–$350 | 1–3 points |
Why Are Authorities Becoming Stricter?
Australian police along with road safety agencies are becoming more and more enforcement active with visibility related offences. With more dashcams and roadside monitoring, police no longer need to catch drivers in the act. A partially misted windshield caught on a camera or noticed during a routine stop can lead to fines sent in the mail. This tightening of the rules is not about revenue. It’s to guarantee that every driver is accountable for road safety and reckless abuse of road privileges.
Safety and Highway Responsibility
Five minutes is all it takes to defog your windows and save a life — your own included. All foggedAustralian drivers need to embrace the idea of clear visibility as a core non-negotiable vehicle safety requirement. A fogged window may appear as minor inoffensive inconvenience during a vehicle commute. However, road safety violations of all types carry the risk of tragedy, dramatic fines and even road accidents. It’s always worth it to take that extra moment before driving.
FAQs
1. If the fog appears while driving, can I still be fined?
Of course. If police determine that you continued driving without clearing the fogged windows or safely driving under any conditions, you can still be fined.
2. Do these rules apply to side and rear windows as well?
Of course. Any window that is important for you to see through. Front, side or rear, need to be clear at all times.
3. What is the fastest way to clear my windshield?
For the best results defogging, use the heater, defogging functions, and HEAT the windshield. No air recirculation.
