Think you know the road rules?
While most Aussie drivers stick to the basics — speed limits, seatbelts and indicators — there’s a long list of lesser-known laws that could catch you off guard. From waving out the window to how far your windows are wound down, these unusual rules might surprise you.
We’ve rounded up some of the strangest sounding road laws across Australia — and yes, they’re real, but we have to say - although they sound strange at first most of them are sensible and designed to keep us all safe.
Waving to a mate or gesturing thanks after a merge? Technically illegal if your hand leaves the vehicle. Australian road rules state you must always keep your limbs inside the vehicle unless giving a proper turn signal.
In Victoria, if you leave your car unattended with the windows down more than 2cm or unlocked — you could be fined over $150. Even on a hot day, roll them up before you walk away.
In Queensland, your horn is strictly for warning of danger — not for saying hello or getting someone’s attention in traffic. Misuse could see you hit with a fine.
Believe it or not, you can be fined for driving too slowly and disrupting traffic flow. If you're well below the limit with no valid reason, you’re a hazard — not a safe driver.
Having your dog on your lap while driving is a no-go — and can cost you fines and demerit points. Pets must be properly restrained in a vehicle, especially in the back of a ute.
Fog lights look cool, but using them when visibility is clear is illegal. Save them for when it's genuinely foggy or raining hard — otherwise, you might be pulled over.
In New South Wales, it used to be illegal to drive through a puddle and splash someone waiting at a bus stop. Not only is it bad for the pedestrian but driving fast through water can affect your ability to control your vehicle. Although this law has been changed we still think that if you can avoid the puddle, you should !
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