Motorists on their way to a dress up party this weekend may need to plan for a carpark costume change upon arrival because driving in some outfits is technically an offence.
Oversized clown shoes or sky-high Barbie stilettos, a Scream mask or some zombie eye contacts, anything that restricts a motorist’s movement or vision can result in on the spot fines and, in some places, a $1500 penalty if heard in court.
A Department of Transport and Planning Victoria spokesperson told 7NEWS.com.au: “We know many families and kids get involved in trick-or-treating for Halloween — it means more pedestrians out on the streets.”
Motorists on their way to a dress up party this weekend may need to plan for a carpark costume change upon arrival because driving in some outfits is technically an offence.
Oversized clown shoes or sky-high Barbie stilettos, a Scream mask or some zombie eye contacts, anything that restricts a motorist’s movement or vision can result in on the spot fines and, in some places, a $1500 penalty if heard in court.
A Department of Transport and Planning Victoria spokesperson told 7NEWS.com.au: “We know many families and kids get involved in trick-or-treating for Halloween — it means more pedestrians out on the streets.”
That means relevant local authorities can use their best judgement to determine whether a costume is impinging on a driver’s control of the car, and each state hands out varying penalties.
Breaching that rule in Queensland can result in an on-the-spot fine of $361.
In South Australia, the breach can result in an expiation fee of $215.
In New South Wales, the penalty comes as a $514 fine with the loss of three demerit points.
In Victoria, breaching the rule can result in a $288 infringement penalty.
Western Australia Police confirmed that if something occurred while the motorist was behind the wheel in a restrictive costume, they could be penalised under Section 62 of the Road Traffic Act for careless driving.
It would set drivers back $300 for the modified penalty, as well as three demerit points if subject to an infringement.
If matters are heard in court, those figures can skyrocket — up to $962 in Victoria, and $1500 in Western Australia.
