Queenslanders paying thousands in fines for breaking obscure road rules

IT’S behaviour that might seem innocuous to most drivers, but ignorance of road rules is costing Queenslanders thousands of dollars. So just be careful how you beep that horn!

COPS are issuing hundreds of fines a year to people driving with their arm or leg outside their vehicle windows.

In the 12 months to October 31, 2017, Queensland Police fined 405 people for driving with a body part out the window.

Police also issued 170 fines for people driving with a pet or another person on their lap.

Pedestrians were also targeted, with 113 fined for obstructing a vehicle.

Incorrect use of warning devices also landed Queenslanders in hot water, with 66 cyclists issued an infringement notice for riding a bike without a bell and 52 drivers received a fine for improperly honking their horn.

Six cyclists were also fined for carrying another person on their bike.

RACQ spokeswoman Lauren Ritchie said people were copping fines for breaking rules that they did not know existed.

“These road rules may seem insignificant to some but they’re in place to keep all road users safe,” she said.

“Ignorance of road rules isn’t a valid excuse so we urge everyone to refresh their knowledge, whether they’re a cyclist, a pedestrian, a driver or a passenger.”