Aussie state to roll out new driver's licence in days. What's in it for drivers?
By
Danielle F.
- Replies 50
As the clock ticks down, drivers who relish the thrill of ultra-high-powered vehicles (UHPVs) should shift gears soon.
South Australian drivers who use UHPVs have been urged to apply for a new U-class licence.
With the deadline fast approaching, those who failed to comply could find themselves facing hefty fines of $2,500 and six demerit points.
The U-class licence was a direct response to a heart-wrenching incident that shook the community.
A 15-year-old girl, Sophia Naismith, was struck by an out-of-control Lamborghini back in 2019.
This incident prompted a significant change in South Australia's road safety regulations, emphasising the need for specialised training for drivers handling powerful vehicles.
Since its announcement last July, about 1,500 drivers have stepped up to the challenge and gone through the necessary training to get the new licence.
However, with the 1 December deadline, time is running out for those still behind the curve.
'The new laws that come into effect on 1 December will strengthen both education and enforcement to help ensure drivers of ultra-high-powered vehicles are well informed, responsible, and safe on the roads,' a spokesperson from the South Australian Department for Infrastructure and Transport stated.
The U-class licence should be a testament to a driver's understanding of the unique risks associated with UHPVs.
These vehicles are defined by their power-to-weight ratio of at least 276 kilowatts per tonne and come in about 200 different makes.
To drive a UHPV, one must complete an interactive online course that hones in on the specific challenges and features of UHPVs.
The online course costs $61, and licence holders need to pay an additional $20 licence replacement fee.
The consequences would be severe for those who would break the new regulation.
A first offence carries a $2,500 fine, and subsequent offences could lead to a year in prison.
Even visitors are not exempt from this new rule.
While they can drive on their interstate licence, they must adhere to South Australian road rules.
Failure to do so would induce penalties, including up to six demerit points and fines of up to $5,000, should the matter reach the local court.
UHPV drivers have to make sure that they are aware of these new regulations.
It's not just about avoiding fines; it's about being a responsible driver and a community member.
Do you believe that these measures will enhance road safety? Your insights and thoughts are valuable, and we look forward to hearing from you in the comments below.
South Australian drivers who use UHPVs have been urged to apply for a new U-class licence.
With the deadline fast approaching, those who failed to comply could find themselves facing hefty fines of $2,500 and six demerit points.
The U-class licence was a direct response to a heart-wrenching incident that shook the community.
A 15-year-old girl, Sophia Naismith, was struck by an out-of-control Lamborghini back in 2019.
This incident prompted a significant change in South Australia's road safety regulations, emphasising the need for specialised training for drivers handling powerful vehicles.
Since its announcement last July, about 1,500 drivers have stepped up to the challenge and gone through the necessary training to get the new licence.
However, with the 1 December deadline, time is running out for those still behind the curve.
'The new laws that come into effect on 1 December will strengthen both education and enforcement to help ensure drivers of ultra-high-powered vehicles are well informed, responsible, and safe on the roads,' a spokesperson from the South Australian Department for Infrastructure and Transport stated.
The U-class licence should be a testament to a driver's understanding of the unique risks associated with UHPVs.
These vehicles are defined by their power-to-weight ratio of at least 276 kilowatts per tonne and come in about 200 different makes.
To drive a UHPV, one must complete an interactive online course that hones in on the specific challenges and features of UHPVs.
The online course costs $61, and licence holders need to pay an additional $20 licence replacement fee.
The consequences would be severe for those who would break the new regulation.
A first offence carries a $2,500 fine, and subsequent offences could lead to a year in prison.
Even visitors are not exempt from this new rule.
While they can drive on their interstate licence, they must adhere to South Australian road rules.
Failure to do so would induce penalties, including up to six demerit points and fines of up to $5,000, should the matter reach the local court.
UHPV drivers have to make sure that they are aware of these new regulations.
It's not just about avoiding fines; it's about being a responsible driver and a community member.
Key Takeaways
- Drivers in South Australia have to apply for a U-class licence to drive ultra-high-powered vehicles.
- The new licence requirement was introduced following the death of 15-year-old Sophia Naismith, who died in a collision with a Lamborghini in 2019.
- Motorists driving the said vehicles must complete an interactive online course teaching them about the additional risks of these cars.
- The U-class licence training and replacement fees cost $81 in total, with the new laws taking effect from 1 December.