Victoria is known for having some of Australia’s most stringent traffic laws and penalties. Whether you’re a driver, motorcyclist, or pedestrian, it’s important to understand the various offences and charges that can be laid under Victorian legislation.
In this article, we’ll look at the different types of traffic law offences in Victoria and what kind of fines or other punishments may apply if charged with such an offence.
We will also explore how VicRoads regulate these offences and provide advice on how best to avoid getting into trouble with authorities when using public roads.
- One of Victoria’s most commonly broken traffic laws is exceeding the speed limit. Speeding can result in fines ranging from $200-$900, depending on how much over the speed limit you travelled. If you are caught travelling 30 km/h or more over the speed limit, your licence will be suspended for a minimum of 6 months.
- Another common traffic violation is running a red light. This can result in a maximum penalty of six demerit points and an infringement fee up to $285. If you accumulate 12 or more demerit points within any 3-year period, your licence will be suspended as well as receiving an additional fine.
- Driving recklessly and driving under the influence (DUI) are also serious violations that carry severe consequences in Victoria. Driving recklessly can result in up to 10 demerit points, 6 months prison time, a $1,000 fine or all three penalties combined depending on the severity of your actions. For DUI offences you can face fines ranging from $590-$1,600, loss of licence for six months and possible vehicle impounding for at least 28 days.
- If you are found guilty of not wearing a seatbelt while driving then you will receive 3 demerit points as well as an infringement fee up to $298. If there is another person in your car who isn’t wearing their seatbelt then there could be an additional penalty applied for each individual without one on.
- Failing to give way when required by law is another offence that carries a maximum penalty of four demerit points and a fine up to $374. This includes failing to give way at marked intersections or roundabouts as well as failing to stop when crossing tram lines at designated areas or when directed by police or other authorised officers such as school crossing supervisors or rail personnel with authority signs displayed.
- Drink-Driving/Drug-driving – if convicted of this offence, drivers may have their license suspended, incur hefty fines, receive jail time, and have their vehicle impounded or forfeited.
- Illegal Parking/Stopping – penalties for this type of offence include being issued parking tickets with hefty fines attached; immobilisation or clamping of the vehicle; having your vehicle towed away by authorities; and receiving a suspension from driving privileges for up to 3 months (in extreme cases).
Overall it is important to remember that these offences can have serious consequences that may impact your personal life and financial situation, so it’s always best practice to obey road rules and drive safely!