The Hidden Danger of Slow Drivers on Australian Roads

While speeding is often the focus of road safety discussions, an equally hazardous practice has emerged as a significant concern in Australia: driving too slowly. Recent studies and enforcement actions across the country underscore the dangers associated with this behavior and the legal consequences slow drivers may face.

Risks Posed by Slow Driving

Travelling significantly below the posted speed limit can create serious safety hazards on Australian roads. Excessively slow drivers may cause:

Disrupted traffic flow
Increased congestion
Confusion and frustration for other motorists
Higher risk of rear-end collisions

Slow driving can prompt other motorists to make abrupt lane changes or risky passing maneuvers, potentially resulting in severe accidents.

Legal Ramifications Throughout Australia

Australian road rules address slow driving through regulations prohibiting the unreasonable obstruction of other drivers' or pedestrians' paths. This law is enforced in all states and territories, with penalties varying by location:

State/Territory	Fine (Up to)	Penalty Units	Value per Unit
New South Wales	$2,200	20	$110
Queensland	$3,096	20	$154.80
Victoria	$384.62	2	$192.31
Western Australia	Not specified	Not specified	Not specified
South Australia	$156	Not specified	Not specified
Tasmania	$975	5	$195
Northern Territory	$7,040	40	$176
Australian Capital Territory	$3,200	20	$160

Specific Regulations and Penalties

In New South Wales, for example, Road Rule 125 prohibits drivers from unreasonably obstructing the path of another driver or pedestrian. This rule applies to motorists travelling too slowly for the prevailing conditions.

It's crucial to note that these fines are levied when a driver's speed is abnormally slow given the circumstances. The posted speed limit represents the maximum safe speed under ideal conditions. Drivers are expected to reduce their speed when conditions are suboptimal, such as during inclement weather or low visibility.

Achieving a Balance Between Safety and Traffic Flow

While driving below the speed limit is not inherently illegal, there comes a point when excessive slowness impedes traffic flow. This is considered a hazard and is often referred to as an obstruction. Factors that may necessitate slower driving include:

Rain
Wind
Poor lighting
Snow or ice
Road conditions (roadworks, hazards, live stock)
Presence of other road users

However, driving excessively slowly without justification (e.g., travelling 10km/h in a 50km/h zone due to light rain) could be deemed unreasonable.

Enforcement Case Study

Perth, Western Australia (2019): A driver was fined for travelling 28 km/h under the speed limit on a freeway
Sydney, New South Wales: Police have issued fines to drivers travelling at 90 km/h in 100 km/h zones while in the right-hand lane and not overtaking
Queensland (2022): A driver received a $275 fine for driving too slowly on the M1 motorway, causing traffic build-up