As the holiday season approaches, it’s crucial for drivers to be aware of the road rules and the implications of double demerits in their state. This period often sees a surge in travel, with many taking to the roads to visit family and friends, making it essential to drive safely and responsibly.
Double demerits are a system designed to encourage road safety by imposing harsher penalties on certain traffic offences. If you’re caught committing these offences during designated periods, such as holiday weekends or school holidays, you may face double the usual demerit points. This means that even a small slip-up could significantly impact your driving record and potentially lead to the suspension of your license.
Among the offences that can attract double demerits are speeding, seatbelt violations, and using a mobile phone while driving. It’s important to note that additional penalties may apply if these offences occur in an active school zone, where children’s safety is a top priority.
- Speeding
- Not wearing a seatbelt, wearing one incorrectly, or driving a passenger who isn’t properly restrained
- Using a mobile phone illegally
- Riding without a helmet
During specified periods, the following infractions will incur double demerits: speeding, not wearing a seatbelt, illegal use of a phone while driving, and failing to wear a helmet on a motorcycle. The rationale behind these penalties is to deter dangerous driving behaviors that can lead to accidents and to promote a culture of safety on the roads.
Understanding and adhering to these rules not only helps in avoiding hefty fines and loss of demerit points but also ensures the safety of all road users. As you plan your travels, make sure to stay informed about the specific dates and regulations in your state, ensuring a safe and enjoyable holiday for everyone.
Double demerits apply for offences including:
- Speeding
- Not wearing a seatbelt or wearing a seatbelt incorrectly, or driving a passenger doing so
- Using your phone illegally
- Riding without a helmet
Western Australia
During this time, the following offences will earn double demerits:
- Speeding
- Drink or drug driving
- Failing to wear a seatbelt and child restraint
- Running a red light
- Illegal use of a mobile phone while driving
- Drive a motor vehicle fitted with a device designed to evade detection by a speed camera (14 points during double demerits period)
- Drive a motor vehicle in a manner to evade detection by a speed camera (14 points during double demerits period)
Queensland
These include:
- Speeding more than 20km/h over the speed limit
- Mobile phone offences
- Driver seatbelt offences
- Failing to ensure passengers under 16 are appropriately restrained
- Motorcycle helmet offences.
