The offence of low range drink driving is committed when the blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of a vehicle is 0.05 or higher, but less than 0.10 in Queensland. If you have a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) above 0.05, you cannot drive in Queensland, unless you have a zero BAC requirement, such as a learner, a provisional driver, or a professional driver.
If you have been convicted of low range drunk driving and have a history of previous offenses, traffic violations, and whether you caused any harm to others, you may be subject to the following penalties:
- A fine of up to $2,167 or imprisonment of up to three months for a first offence
- A fine of up to $4,334 or imprisonment of up to six months for a second or subsequent offence
- Licence disqualification for one to nine months for a first offence
- Licence disqualification for six months to five years for a second or subsequent offence
- A requirement to complete a driver education program
- A requirement to install an alcohol interlock device
- Vehicle impoundment or forfeiture
If you are caught low range drink driving, your driving privileges will be suspended for 24 hours if your blood alcohol concentration is found to have exceeded the limit applicable to you. If you have been charged with a low range drink driving offence while a previous drink driving charge is still pending or if you were a holder of a section 79E order with an X4 condition on your replacement license, your license will be suspended immediately. Your punishment will also be determined by a magistrate who will decide the length and severity of the sentence.
Low range drink driving is a complex and serious matter that can have significant consequences for your life and livelihood. You should get legal advice if you have been charged with low-range drink driving or if you want to dispute the charge.
