Aussies explode over new ‘fake, AI’ road rules

Aussie drivers have reacted furiously to a rumoured new set of strict road rules but you might want to park your outrage at the kerb because the truth is rather different.

Authorities have shot down viral online claims that Aussies could soon face a series of onerous new road rules, that would significantly curb what drivers could do in their cars - including being fined of up to $1,500 for eating or drinking while driving.

AI-generated articles and blogs have surfaced on Google Discover and social media, claiming that a new nationwide road rule prohibiting drivers from eating or sipping water or coffee while driving will come into effect later this month.

The content has already sparked anger, confusion and furious debate across Instagram and X.

“NANNY STATES: No more drinking your morning coffee on the way to work under Labor . No, no, no. Heaven forbid you wanting to enjoy the hour long commute, each way,” claimed one hyperventilating poster, eager to crash tackle the ‘new laws’.

“SO given the new laws prohibiting eating and drinking in cars - is NSW going to ban DRIVE THROUGH? Surely people are committing an offence the second they leave the window? Any compensation to those businesses????” another person wrote on X.

One of the social media posts, claiming Aussies will soon be subject to onerous new road rules. The claims are fake.

NO NEW RULES BUT PENALTIES ARE THERE

However state transport authorities say there’s no truth to the rumours - Macca’s drive-thru lives!

Transport for NSW confirmed the articles contained false information and that “there have been no changes to road rules”.

And Queensland’s Department of Transport and Main Roads confirmed to 7NEWS that the reports of the new road rules were “fake”.

While there are no specific laws banning eating or drinking while driving in any Australian state or territory, motorists can still face penalties if their actions impact their ability to drive

NSW’s road rule 297(1) states a driver must not drive a vehicle unless the driver has proper control of the vehicle.

So if eating or drinking causes distraction or results in losing control, a driver can be faced with a $481 fine and three demerit points.

There are no more silly road rules for the cops to enforce.

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In more serious cases, if a crash does occur as a result of distracted driving, the matter can go to court where fines can reach up to $2200.

Other states and territories have similar laws covering careless or distracted driving.

The only specific fines for eating or drinking relate to public transport.

Macca’s drive thru lives!

According to NRMA, only eleven people have been fined for these reasons from 2019 to 2024, resulting in a total of $1,900 in fines.

The false eating and drinking claim follows another wave of AI-generated misinformation earlier this year.

Last month, authorities quickly debunked articles stating that drivers over the age of 60 would be placed under a strict night-time driving ban.

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The $1,500 eating and drinking fine has been confirmed as fake by transport authorities. Picture: John Grainger

The article claimed that “motorists aged 60 and above will face night driving restrictions” between 10pm and 5am.

Transport Victoria responded online to clarify the rumour.

“We’re aware of a myth that drivers over 60 face an overnight driving curfew – there is no such restriction,” Transport Victoria posted online.

Transport for NSW also confirmed there have been no changes to driving restrictions/requirements for older drivers.

“For accurate information, always check a trusted source like the NSW Government website. It’s the best place for up-to-date rules and safety info,” a Transport for NSW spokesman said.

Originally published as Aussies explode over new ‘fake, AI’ road rules