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Road Rules Every Learner Driver in Queensland Needs to Know

If you’re a learner driver in Queensland, there are certain road rules that you need to know before you can start driving on your own. For most of us, it signifies gaining a level of independence and freedom that we’ve never had before. But before you can start cruising around town with the wind in your hair, there’s a lot you need to learn about being a responsible driver. In this blog post, we’ll go over some of the most important road rules for learner drivers in Queensland. 

10 Handy Tips for New Learner Drivers

  • Give way to all vehicles from the right when exiting a driveway onto a road and turning left, otherwise, give way in both directions
  • Always come to a complete stop at STOP signs approximately 1 meter BEHIND the solid white line
  • The same applies at pedestrian crossings if a pedestrian has entered the crossing (speak to your driving instructor for other rules that apply at pedestrian crossings
  • Never exceed the speed limit, which is 50 km/h unless otherwise signposted
  • Always wear your seat belt and make sure all your passengers are buckled up too (Pro tip: buckle up immediately after closing your door)
  • Never use your mobile phone while driving, including hands-free, blue-tooth accessories, and loud-speaker functions, are restricted for learners and P1 license holders under 25 years of age even if it’s hands-free (Pro tip: Take your eyes off the road for even 1 second can be fatal)
  • Don’t drink any alcohol before getting behind the wheel
  • Never drive under the influence of drugs, including over-the-counter and prescription medication
  • Make sure you have your L-plates (red P-plates if you’re on your P’s) clearly displayed on the front and back of your car
  • Learner drivers cannot drive unaccompanied between 10 pm and 5 am unless they are travelling to or from a licensed workplace or supervised driving activity

Giving Way 

One of the most important road rules for learner drivers in Queensland is giving way. When you’re driving, you need to make sure that you give way to pedestrians, cyclists, and other vehicles as required by law. Failing to give way can result in an accident, so it’s important to be aware of your surroundings and be prepared to stop if necessary. 

Speed Limits 

Another important road rule for learner drivers in Queensland is obeying the posted speed limits. Speed limits are put in place for a reason. It’s important to follow them so that you don’t end up getting a ticket or causing an accident. Speeding is one of the leading causes of accidents, so it’s important to always drive at a safe speed. 

Seat belts 

Another road rule that all drivers in Queensland need to follow is wearing a seat belt. Seat belts are required by law, and they can help to protect you in the event of an accident. Wearing a seat belt can help to prevent serious injuries, so make sure that you always buckle up before you start driving. 

Awareness

Be patient and aware of other road users at all times. Speak with your professional driving instructor about learning how to scan ahead 40 to 70 meters ahead of you every few seconds. This will a lifesaver!

These are just a few of the road rules that all learner drivers in Queensland need to know. By following these rules, you can help to keep yourself and others safe on the roads. If you’re caught breaking any of these rules, you may be fined and/or lose demerit points. If you accrue 4 or more demerit points within 1 year of getting your license, your license may be suspended.

For more information about learner driver road rules in Queensland, be sure to check out the website of the Department of Transport and Main Roads.