Authorities investigate growing trend of demerit point sales on social media
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Shady drivers are exploiting social media to illegally sell their demerit points to others in a ‘secret’ scheme threatening road safety across Queensland and other states.
Demerit points are given to Australian drivers who commit traffic offences. Collecting 12 or more points within three years leads to a license suspension.
But instead of copping the consequences, some drivers are sneaking onto online platforms like Facebook and Gumtree to take demerit points for cash.
One incriminating post was brazenly titled 'demerit and fines sale' with a $50 price tag. But while drivers think they’ve pulled a fast one, this black market trade could hit them with hefty fines or even jail time.
So why would drivers risk prison to sell their points?
Well, for one, the explosion in high-tech traffic cameras across Queensland has drivers racking up points faster than ever.
Rather than curbing their lead foot, some turn to shady online deals to dodge penalties.
The network involved in selling questionable demerit points is operating in plain view.
How can demerit points be assigned to drivers who weren't responsible for the traffic violation? To clarify, let's break down how the demerit point system works.
Regular license holders can accumulate a maximum of 13 demerit points before facing a license suspension.
When a traffic violation, like speeding or using a cell phone while driving, takes place, the owner of the vehicle is sent a notice indicating the fine and the number of demerit points attributed to the offence.
However, there's a scenario where the vehicle's owner may not have been the one driving when the violation occurred.
In such cases, drivers have the option to complete an online form, which is submitted to their state or territory's revenue authority. This form allows them to identify the individual they believe is responsible for the traffic violation and provide their contact information.
Drivers can also nominate themselves as the offending party. This particular option appears to be the vulnerability exploited by illicit exchanges in the black market.
'If they're involved in this sort of behaviour, [drivers] should be really, really concerned because it is illegal, unlawful and will be punished,' warned criminal lawyer Ron Behlau.
‘Swearing a false declaration is an offence itself. It's also tantamount to perverting the course of justice, which carries with it a seven-year maximum.’
Members, be very careful if you come across any posts or advertisements on Facebook offering to sell or swap demerit points. Not only is it illegal, but it could also land you in a lot of hot water!
Have you seen dodgy demerit point schemes online? Share your experiences with us in the comments below!
Demerit points are given to Australian drivers who commit traffic offences. Collecting 12 or more points within three years leads to a license suspension.
But instead of copping the consequences, some drivers are sneaking onto online platforms like Facebook and Gumtree to take demerit points for cash.
One incriminating post was brazenly titled 'demerit and fines sale' with a $50 price tag. But while drivers think they’ve pulled a fast one, this black market trade could hit them with hefty fines or even jail time.
Drivers who have accrued demerit points have been selling them off on the black market operating on social media. Credit: Flickr.
So why would drivers risk prison to sell their points?
Well, for one, the explosion in high-tech traffic cameras across Queensland has drivers racking up points faster than ever.
Rather than curbing their lead foot, some turn to shady online deals to dodge penalties.
The network involved in selling questionable demerit points is operating in plain view.
How can demerit points be assigned to drivers who weren't responsible for the traffic violation? To clarify, let's break down how the demerit point system works.
Regular license holders can accumulate a maximum of 13 demerit points before facing a license suspension.
When a traffic violation, like speeding or using a cell phone while driving, takes place, the owner of the vehicle is sent a notice indicating the fine and the number of demerit points attributed to the offence.
However, there's a scenario where the vehicle's owner may not have been the one driving when the violation occurred.
In such cases, drivers have the option to complete an online form, which is submitted to their state or territory's revenue authority. This form allows them to identify the individual they believe is responsible for the traffic violation and provide their contact information.
Drivers can also nominate themselves as the offending party. This particular option appears to be the vulnerability exploited by illicit exchanges in the black market.
'If they're involved in this sort of behaviour, [drivers] should be really, really concerned because it is illegal, unlawful and will be punished,' warned criminal lawyer Ron Behlau.
‘Swearing a false declaration is an offence itself. It's also tantamount to perverting the course of justice, which carries with it a seven-year maximum.’
Members, be very careful if you come across any posts or advertisements on Facebook offering to sell or swap demerit points. Not only is it illegal, but it could also land you in a lot of hot water!
Have you seen dodgy demerit point schemes online? Share your experiences with us in the comments below!
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