What Happens If You Get Caught Driving Unaccompanied On Learners
Learner drivers need to be aware that there are consequences when they break the rules of driving. In Australia, each state has its own way of dealing with rule breakers, and we are going to be looking at the rules for unaccompanied driving on a learner’s licence in New South Wales. Before that, though, we’re going to go through the rules of driving for a learner so that if you didn’t already know what they were, you will by the time you have finished reading. So, if you want to know more about this, keep reading down below.
Rules For Learner Drivers
If you are driving on a learner’s licence, then it is important you follow all the correct rules. For example, you must be accompanied by someone who holds their full driving licence for two or more years. As well as this, you must clearly display your ‘L’ plates on the vehicle that you are driving so that others know that you are a learner driver. This will mean that they likely have more patience if you make a mistake, and will allow you more room to practise your driving.
If you are found to be breaking any of these rules, then there are going to be consequences for you. We’re going to look at what happens if you get caught driving unaccompanied on a learner’s licence, so if you want to know about the rules and regulations surrounding penalties for other rules, there is plenty of information online.
Unaccompanied Driving New South Wales Rules
The system in most of Australia is the demerit system. If a learner driver gets more than 4 demerit points in the span of three years, then they are going to have their licence suspended, or the licence renewal application will be denied for a period of three months. All speeding offences will earn a learner driver 4 demerit points instantly.
If you are found driving unaccompanied with a learner’s licence and the court convicts you of this, then you could face a number of consequences. You will face a maximum fine of $2,200, and a maximum disqualification of twelve months. However, even if the judge shows you leniency and doesn’t disqualify you for this amount of time, you are going to have to serve a mandatory three months disqualification for driving unaccompanied. Keep in mind that this will only happen if the court decides to record a conviction against you.
Unaccompanied Driving QLD Rules
In Queensland, the rules for learner drivers are strict to ensure safety on the road. Learner drivers must always be accompanied by a supervisor who holds an open licence and must display their ‘L’ plates. If you are caught driving unaccompanied, you will face serious penalties.
Driving unaccompanied on a learner’s licence in Queensland results in a fine of up to $2,447 and 4 demerit points. Accumulating 4 demerit points as a learner driver will result in a 3-month licence suspension. Additionally, if the court records a conviction, you may also face a disqualification period, which could impact when you can reapply for your licence.
Unaccompanied Driving ACT Rules
In the ACT, learner drivers are also required to have a fully licenced driver accompany them whenever they are driving. Like other states, unaccompanied driving is considered a serious offence and comes with significant penalties.
If you are caught driving unaccompanied on a learner’s licence in the ACT, you could face fines of up to $1,500 and 4 demerit points. If these 4 demerit points are accumulated, your learner’s licence will be suspended for 3 months. In cases where the court chooses to record a conviction, additional penalties such as a driving disqualification may also be imposed.
Why It’s So Dangerous
There are reasons that the law is the way it is, and it’s to protect others on the road as well as you when you are driving. If you have someone who is experienced in the car with you and they think you are going to make a mistake, they are there to stop you from doing this. However, if you are on your own and you are not a fully trained driver, then you could be viewed as a danger to everyone else on the road. Until you become a fully-fledged driver, you do pose some level of risk as you have not been cleared by the proper authorities to drive on your own.
As well as this, having someone with you in the car who is experienced can do a lot for your confidence. You might get nervous or scared when you are on your own, and there is nothing you can do, you have to keep going. Having someone with you gives you more options. They can either help you figure out what to do next, or you can pull over and let them take the wheel for the rest of the journey to ensure that everyone is as safe as possible. Safety is, and always will be the main priority for everyone on the road, and that is why there are consequences if you don’t follow the rules.
Get Started with LTrent Driving School Today
If you’re a learner driver or have your provisional licence, and you’d like to learn more about safe driving in NSW, ACT and QLD, LTrent Driving School is here to help. We offer professional driving instruction and education to help you improve your skills – and drive with confidence. Contact us now to learn more. For our Sydney office call 02 8748 4500. Alternatively, book a driving lesson through our online booking system.