Driving Over Roundabouts: Are You Breaking the Law?
Driving Over Roundabouts: Are You Breaking the Law?
Did you know that driving over roundabouts could land you in hot water with the law?
It’s a common occurrence – driving over a roundabout instead of around it. But did you know that this could be against the law? Find out the rules and potential fines for driving over roundabouts in Australia.
Roundabout rules are many, varied, and complex.
States may apply the rules differently.
Driving over a central traffic island, however, is not legal.
The purpose of roundabouts is for drivers to drive around them, not over them.
If you drive over a roundabout, you could be fined.
The Australian Road Rules 2014, regulation 115, states that drivers must drive to the left of the central traffic island in the roundabout.
There are exceptions for larger vehicles that require driving on the edge or over the central traffic island.
In NSW, the maximum fine for driving over a roundabout is $2200 and 4 demerit points.
Queensland, Victoria, and Tasmania also enforce fines for driving over roundabouts.
In South Australia, the fine for this offense is $499.
The ACT imposes a maximum penalty of $3200 for failing to drive to the left of the roundabout.
There is no specific legislation in the Northern Territory, but it’s important to follow the rules.
Always check with the relevant roads authority in your state or territory for up-to-date information.
- Roundabout rules vary between states
- Driving over the central traffic island is not legal
- Fines and demerit points may apply for breaking the rules
Driving over roundabouts is not only against the law, but it can also result in fines and demerit points. Each state has its own rules and penalties, so it’s crucial to be aware of the specific regulations in your area. Remember, it’s always better to drive around the roundabout than over it.
