Traffic law offences in Queensland are serious issues, carrying severe penalties if convicted
This includes a range of violations from speeding to reckless driving and failing to obey traffic signals or signs.
All drivers in the state need to understand what constitutes a traffic offence and what the penalties maybe if they’re charged with one. In this article, we’ll take a look at some of the most common traffic law offences in Queensland and their associated penalties. We’ll also provide an overview of how these charges can be contested, should you find yourself facing them. With this knowledge, you can better protect yourself from the potentially severe penalties that accompany a traffic law offence.
It’s important to note that any offence related to driving or operating a motor vehicle is taken very seriously in Queensland. Speeding is one of the most common offences and can result in significant fines and demerit points being added to your licence if you’re convicted. Other violations such as failing to stop for a red light or failing to give way are also punishable offences, and may even carry jail time on top of financial penalties if convicted. Similarly, reckless driving is another serious charge that carries hefty fines along with the possibility of imprisonment.
In addition to these charges, there are other offences such as drink-driving, driving without a valid licence, and car registration offences. These activities are also punishable by heavy fines or even jail time if convicted.
Fines and charges for traffic offences in QLD
Exceeding the speed limit
by more than 13 km/h: 20 demerit points and a fine of $1744
Driving without due care and attention
10 demerit points and a fine of up to $1000
Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs
15 demerit points, disqualification from driving for at least 6 months, a criminal charge with possible jail time, and an $1822 fine
Failing to give way when required by law
3demerit points &$332fine
Disobeying traffic signals such as red lights or stop signs
3 demerit points &$186 fine
Using an unauthorized mobile phone while driving (including hands-free)
4 demerit points &$341 fine
Driving an unregistered or uninsured vehicle
3 demerit points and a fine of up to $353
Seatbelt offences
2-3 demerit points and fines from $364 – $448
Dangerous driving
10 demerit points, 6 months disqualification from driving if done for the first time, possible jail time, and a fine of up to $1020
Failing to ensure that children are properly restrained in child restraints when travelling in a motor vehicle
3 demerit points & $447 fine.
These penalties can vary depending on the circumstances of each traffic offence case. It is important to understand your rights.
Going to Court for traffic law charges in Queensland
If you receive a traffic law offence in Queensland, then you must understand what the court process will entail. In most cases, the court process begins when you are issued a Court Attendance Notice (CAN). This document outlines all of the details of your offence and informs you of the date, time, and location of your court appearance.
At court, your case will be heard before a Magistrate or Judge who will consider all pertinent information to determine whether you are guilty or not. If you are found guilty, they will issue a sentence that could include a fine, demerit points on your license and even jail time for more serious offences.
It is important to remember that if you plead not guilty, then the prosecution must prove that you indeed committed the offence beyond a reasonable doubt. You may choose to represent yourself in court or have legal representation by an experienced lawyer. It is also possible to apply for Legal Aid if this would assist in your case.
In some cases, it is possible to attend Traffic Offender Programs, which allow drivers to complete education courses as an alternative to receiving further punishments such as fines or licence suspension.
The program involves attending educational sessions that provide participants with knowledge about road safety and responsibility while driving on Australian roads.
Understanding these processes can help ensure that your rights are upheld throughout the entire court proceedings and can also make sure that any penalties imposed fit within the scope of justice for your actions on the road.
