Driver faces $671 in fines after state rolls out latest licence changes

Road rules and regulations change over time.

Drivers now face a stringent new rule that could see them parting with a hefty sum of money.

The introduction of U-class licences for sports and luxury car owners just got crossed by its first violator.


A 36-year-old man driving a Lamborghini Huracan got pulled over by the police for lacking a rear number plate.

Authorities later discovered he did not have the U-class licence required by the state.

Despite the potential for a much larger fine, he was issued an expiation notice and penalties of $671.


compressed-lamborghini.jpeg
Luxury sports vehicles could reach high speeds, which may cause accidents when mismanaged. Image Credit: Pexels/lotaguuue


Under the new law, motorists using UHPVs must hold a valid U-class licence.

Failure to do so could result in up to $2,500 in penalties and up to six demerit points for first-time offenders.

The stakes are higher for repeat offenders, who could get imprisoned for a year and a maximum fine of $5,000.


The new legislation came into effect last Sunday, 1 December, as a direct response to the death of 15-year-old Sophia Naismith.

Her passing prompted authorities to take a closer look at how ultra-high-powered vehicles (UHPVs) are regulated on the roads.

The Department for Infrastructure and Transport continued urging drivers to comply with the new requirements.

With approximately 1.2 million registered drivers in the state, the impact of this legislation is far-reaching.

Since announcing the changes in July, almost 1,500 drivers have gone through the required training for a U-class licence.

The U-class licence course fee costs $61, and the licence replacement fee costs $20—totalling $81.


What vehicles fall under the UHPV category?

According to authorities, vehicles with a gross mass of up to 4.5 tonnes and a power-to-weight ratio of 276 kilowatts per tonne or more should be considered a UHPV.

This includes about 200 makes of vehicles and excludes buses, motorbikes, or motor trikes.

The U-class training course should educate drivers on the unique features and risks accompanying these machines.

It's crucial for all drivers, especially those with a penchant for speed and luxury, to stay informed about the latest regulations.

The community's loss should be a reminder of the responsibility that comes with driving any vehicle, particularly those with breakneck speeds.
Key Takeaways

  • A Lamborghini driver was fined $671 under new legislation about special U-class licences to drive ultra-high-powered vehicles.
  • The requirement for a U-class licence came into effect after a tragic incident where a teenager died due to an out-of-control Lamborghini.
  • Almost 1,500 drivers have since went through training for the U-class licence.
  • The law defined an ultra-high-powered vehicle (UHPV) as a vehicle with a power-to-weight ratio of 276 kilowatts per tonne or more. However, this excludes buses, motorbikes, and motor trikes.
What do you think of the new U-class licence? Do you think that these measures could make our roads safer? Join the conversation and share your thoughts with us in the comments below!
 

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When a story like this appears it may be good idea to include the following ie: in which State this rule applies, when it came into effect, a list or where to get the list of those vehicles it applies to or a website to go to where you can get all of the information that is missing in the story. The story is following the 'trend' being used in the general media where they print a story, sensational heading, scare tactics in the bulk of the story however, a lot of inuendo and lacking critical information... waiting to hear a follow-up. I know it said 1st Dec. however, has the Law/Regulation gone through and been gazetted, can't rely just on a 'guy has received a fine' as valid and accurate.
 
Another BS so called law “to protect the public” that’s really about putting more restrictions and control on its citizens.
Where will this end? When driving and owning a car is limited to Politicians, police and the Military??
 
So sad about Sophia, but I don't have to worry.....I'll never be able to afford a Lamborghini Huracan or any other luxury sports car!
 
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Reactions: Colette 3799
Some of these road rule changes and/or related type articles, sometimes are only relevant in particular States. This article doesn’t say if it’s Australia wide or not. It doesn’t worry me because I won’t be driving these type of vehicles, but just curious 🧐
 
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Reactions: Rosi Gordon
When a story like this appears it may be good idea to include the following ie: in which State this rule applies, when it came into effect, a list or where to get the list of those vehicles it applies to or a website to go to where you can get all of the information that is missing in the story. The story is following the 'trend' being used in the general media where they print a story, sensational heading, scare tactics in the bulk of the story however, a lot of inuendo and lacking critical information... waiting to hear a follow-up. I know it said 1st Dec. however, has the Law/Regulation gone through and been gazetted, can't rely just on a 'guy has received a fine' as valid and accurate.
Yes, reads a bit like a local state press release, where community members are generally aware of situation - but doesn't assist other Australians. It may even be something that people might advocate for adoption in their own states
 
Some of these road rule changes and/or related type articles, sometimes are only relevant in particular States. This article doesn’t say if it’s Australia wide or not. It doesn’t worry me because I won’t be driving these type of vehicles, but just curious 🧐
It's SA only
 
No, education is the way to go I have driven ultra high powered vehicles and commonsense is the issue including driving around heavy vehicles
An old saying that a fool can drive but education is hard
 
I often carry my mobile in my shirt pocket, and when I jump in the car, it stays there. Is that illegal? Do I have to consciously remember every time I jump in the car to take it out of my pocket?
 
Thanks to all who clarified that this applied to SA, now, can I drive my NSW registered McClaren into SA without firstly getting this U catagory.... LOL
 

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