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Oct 15, 2024

Little-known Aussie road rule could attract a $3700 fine

A prominent Australian solicitor is sounding the alarm over a little-known road rule many drivers "are unaware of" that could cost them big time if they're caught-out in the act. Fines for those

A prominent Australian solicitor is sounding the alarm over a little-known road rule many drivers "are unaware of" that could cost them big time if they're caught-out in the act. Fines for those caught breaking this law on our roads could cost people anywhere between $50 and an astonishing $3,700.

Sydney lawyer Avinash Singh said he's noticed "many Australians are unaware of the expensive consequences they could face for using their car horn incorrectly" — even if it's unintentional.

Speaking to Yahoo News Australia, he said drivers need to ensure they only use their car horns when warning other drivers, alerting animals about their approach or position of their vehicle.

"Whether it’s beeping to greet friends or family members or out of frustration of others’ driving, honking your horn inappropriately is an offence," he told Yahoo.

"No matter what state you’re driving in, a vehicle's horn can only be used to warn other drivers or alert animals about the approach or position of their vehicle.

"The only exception to this is if the horn is being used as part of an anti-theft device or an alcohol interlock. Drivers caught using their horn in situations outside of these could face possible imprisonment and fines of over $3,000, depending on which state they reside."

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The legal use of car horns on Australian roads has long been a divisive topic of debate, and while it is mandatory to have a horn installed in your vehicle, improper use can result in significant penalties.

In Australia, drivers are permitted to use horns solely to alert other drivers or animals to the presence or location of their vehicle. Additionally, it is legal to use the horn as part of an anti-theft system or an alcohol interlock device.

New South Wales - Maximum penalty of 20 penalty units, which is currently $2,200.

Victoria - 1 penalty unit, currently $197.59.

Queensland - Maximum penalty of 20 penalty units, which is currently $3226.

Western Australia - 1 penalty unit, currently $50.

South Australia - Set fine of $323.

Northern Territory - Maximum penalty of 20 penalty units ($3,700), or imprisonment for 6 months.

Tasmania - Set fine of $146.25.

Australian Capital Territory - Infringement penalty of $264, maximum penalty of 20 penalty units ($3,200).

Around the country, road and transport officials have been cracking down on drivers caught breaking the law behind the wheel.

Australia’s road network this year recorded its deadliest six months in the first half of 2024 — in more than 13 years. The Australian Automobile Association’s newest Benchmarking the National Road Safety Strategy report reveals a 7.3 per cent increase in deaths on Australian roads from 2022 to 2023, with 1266 people losing their lives on our roads last year.

The second half of 2023 proved the deadliest consecutive quarters on Australian roads since the first six months of 2010, as 677 road deaths were recorded. The significant increase in the national road toll in 2023 was driven by a climbing death toll in three Australian states.

NSW recorded a nearly 30 per cent increase from 2022, with 351 individuals losing their lives last year, Victoria’s road toll increased by 22.5 per cent, with 294 deaths in 2023 and South Australia’s road toll reached 117, a nearly 65 per cent increase from 2022.

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