New traffic policies are expected to come into effect on Australian roads as of September 1, 2023. The policies are supposed to promote greater on-road safety, improve enforcement, and address modern forms of transport. It is imperative that drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians are briefed on these policies prior to hitting the road or accelerating.
Distraction is one of the many causes of road incidents which for the mobile phone usage charge seems to lack enforcement. The federal government is, however, making changes to ensure that mobile usage while driving less common as September 1 approaches. The fine for mobile phone usage while driving is expected to rise to $398, which is a government fine designed to serve both the employer and the employee. The fine also comes with 3 demerit points for mobile phone usage suggesting that the use of mobile devices while driving and during peak traffic is discouraged.
Updates on the Regulations Concerning E-Scooters and Other Micromobility Devices
With the advent of e-scooters and micromobility devices, regulations have also evolved to demarcate their permissible zones of usage. E-scooters are now classified as bicycles, and thus permitted to be ridden on bike lanes and shared paths, but not on footpaths. Users are required to abide by the same regulations as cyclists, including the wearing of helmets, obeying signal and stop-go traffic lights, and observing other road regulations.
Modifications To Point to Point Speed Camera Zones in Australia
The application of point to point speed cameras, which ascertain average speeds over distances, will now be in some of the more dangerous and risk-prone zones like urban and suburban roads. These will be marked with Warning signs. The distribution of remote camera station placement for the sake of consistent rule compliance results in the use of speed cameras over greater distances to avoid sharp compliance/slack compliance effects—marked by some clusters.
Preemptive Actions to the Changes Implemented
Drivers wishing to avoid the unsolicited traffic fines or merit point costs will need to be more vigilant not to ignore council announcements regarding sign alterations. Traffic road safety advocates propose changing the schedule to counter the expected increase in travel time due to lower speed limits and the newly introduced speed camera zones. Users of micromobility devices are advised to check with their local councils regarding any supplementary bylaws pertinent to the federal changes. In relation to the federal legislation, Australia seeks to minimize road trauma and protect vulnerable road users while implementing these rules. Compliance with the regulations benefits all road users by creating safer and more predictable paths for travel.
