LegalPage 2

Learn about road laws, driver rights and legal updates that affect car owners.

Keep your hands on the wheel and off your passenger, warns lawyer

Keep your hands on the wheel and off your passenger, warns lawyer

If you're having fun with a partner in your car, be careful that members of the public – or the police – can't see you. And make sure you're not driving!

Is it illegal to drive with headphones?

Matt Campbell

Is it illegal to drive with headphones?

You might find yourself wanting to drive with headphones on, but be careful – it could land you in trouble.

2 Years Ago

Is it illegal to drive while smoking?

Matt Campbell

Is it illegal to drive while smoking?

While it's legal to smoke in the car, there are circumstances where you will be fined for doing so.

2 Years Ago

Is it legal to eat while driving in Australia?

Matt Campbell

Is it legal to eat while driving in Australia?

Eating while driving may not only mess up your car, it may see you cop a fine from the police depending on where in Australia you are.

2 Years Ago

Is it legal to drive with your fog lights on?

Matt Campbell

Is it legal to drive with your fog lights on?

We've all complained about drivers coming the other way with fog lights on in broad daylight. When is it legal to use them?

2 Years Ago

Is it legal to use a cloned or fake number plate that looks real?

Matt Campbell

Is it legal to use a cloned or fake number plate that looks real?

No matter how good your fake number plate might look, if it's not issued by the state authority, it is illegal to use.

2 Years Ago

Is it illegal to always drive in the right-hand lane?

Matt Campbell

Is it illegal to always drive in the right-hand lane?

It seems to happen all the time: someone hogs the right-hand lane on the highway. But is it actually illegal to do this?

2 Years Ago

Is it legal to sleep in your car in Australia?

Matt Campbell

Is it legal to sleep in your car in Australia?

Whether you don't currently have a home, or you're living the van life or you're simply tired on a long drive, you may need to sleep in your car. But is it allowed?

2 Years Ago

Is it illegal to change the colour of your car?

Matt Campbell

Is it illegal to change the colour of your car?

Is your wrap more than one colour? Is it reflective? Does it change in the sun? There are rules you should be aware of.

2 Years Ago

Is it legal to drive with your tailgate down?

Matt Campbell

Is it legal to drive with your tailgate down?

Driving with the tailgate down is legal in certain circumstances, but you can't obscure some of the key identifiers for the car.

2 Years Ago

Is it legal for learner drivers to tow a trailer?

Matt Campbell

Is it legal for learner drivers to tow a trailer?

There is no Australia-wide rule when it comes to towing when you are a learner driver licence holder, but in some states it's illegal.

2 Years Ago

Is it legal for passengers to drink alcohol inside a car?

Matt Campbell

Is it legal for passengers to drink alcohol inside a car?

Is it illegal for passengers to be in your car while drinking alcohol? Can you get in trouble for it? It depends on where you live and where you are in the car.

2 Years Ago

Is it legal to drive a vehicle that's blowing smoke?

Matt Campbell

Is it legal to drive a vehicle that's blowing smoke?

There are fines and penalties applicable across Australia for driving a vehicle that is emitting unnecessary smoke.

2 Years Ago

Is it legal for learner drivers to use cruise control?

Matt Campbell

Is it legal for learner drivers to use cruise control?

Contrary to popular opinion, it isn't illegal for L-platers to use cruise control in Australia... though it mightn't be the best idea.

2 Years Ago

Is it illegal to lower your car in Australia?

Matt Campbell

Is it illegal to lower your car in Australia?

There are different laws across the country that govern what you can and can’t do when you’re planning to lower your vehicle.

2 Years Ago

Is it legal to drive with your boot open?

Matt Campbell

Is it legal to drive with your boot open?

Driving with your boot open is technically not illegal, but there are many factors you need to be aware of before you do so.

2 Years Ago

Is it legal for kids to ride in a taxi without a child seat?

Matt Campbell

Is it legal for kids to ride in a taxi without a child seat?

In most parts of Australia, if you're taking a taxi with your little one, you aren't required to strap them into a child seat.

2 Years Ago