The obscure road rules draining Aussie drivers’ wallets

Fresh research has uncovered a raft of obscure driving offences catching Australians out – and some could cost motorists hundreds of dollars in fines. Staying across these lesser-known road rules ahead of National Road Safety Week (May 17–24) won’t just help keep you safer behind the wheel, it could also save your wallet.

Youi Insurance has rounded up eight lesser-known road rules from around the country, saying seemingly harmless behaviours behind the wheel could result in significant fines.

“What really catches people out is that these aren’t behaviours most drivers associate with serious offences,” said Youi Insurance Head of Product - Vehicle and Lifestyle, Marni Jackson.

“But while they might seem minor, they all have real safety implications – whether it’s preventing road rage, reducing distractions, or avoiding crashes. That’s why these rules exist, and why drivers are often surprised when they learn about them.”

Excessive honking: this can cause distractions on the road or road rage?disputes, as well as a $349 fine in NSW.

“Many drivers see it as a way to express frustration or to say goodbye, but it can cost you $349,” said Jackson.

Driving a hired 4x4 on K’gari: driving with more than seven passengers or camping equipment strapped to the roof can increase the risk of rollover crashes and result in a $483 fine in Queensland.

Riding electric scooters on a footpath: this can cause high-speed collisions with pedestrians and result in a $198 fine in Victoria.

Entering a roundabout in the incorrect lane: this can cause major confusion or risk of collisions – it may also result in a $538 fine in South Australia.

Driving with both headlights and fog lights in fine weather conditions: doing this may cause disorientation or vision impairment for other drivers and results in a $100 fine in Western Australia.

Stopping on a continuous yellow line: this can impair driving visibility for upcoming intersections and be dangerous – it could also result in a $152 fine in Tasmania.

Looking at a passenger’s phone: doing this can be distracting and dangerous while driving and can result in a $500 fine in the Northern Territory.

Driving with a passenger’s body part outside of the vehicle’s window/door: doing this can cause injury from passing objects/vehicles, sudden stops or be distracting. It may lead to a $219 fine in the ACT.

While drivers are generally aware of most road rules, Jackson said some (including those above) can be overlooked because many driving behaviours become habitual.

“Once people pass their driving test, they rarely revisit the rulebook, even though road rules change and evolve over time,” said Jackson.

Some are also less widely known because rules differ from state to state.

“There’s also confusion because rules vary significantly between states, so what’s acceptable in one place can lead to a fine in another.

“On top of that, some behaviours, like tailgating or failing to indicate, are so common that drivers underestimate how risky or illegal they actually are. When something feels normal, people stop questioning it.”

Staying up to date with road rules is critical to road safety and your hip pocket.

“Knowing the rules helps drivers make better decisions, reduces uncertainty and stress behind the wheel, and ultimately supports safer outcomes for everyone sharing the road,” said Jackson.

The most effective step drivers can take is to check official state road authority websites, particularly before travelling interstate, because assuming road rules are uniform across Australia can be a costly mistake.

“Our research also shows strong support for better education and public awareness campaigns, which suggests Australians want clearer, more regular reminders. Taking just a few minutes to refresh your knowledge, even on common behaviours, can make a meaningful difference to safety, compliance and peace of mind on the road.”

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