Higher fines ahead for motorists breaking the rules in Queensland!
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Ah, the outdoors, a place many of us visit to relax and forget our troubles.
Unfortunately, there are some who enjoy it a little too recklessly, risking their lives and the lives of others in the process.
These hazards to public safety have not gone unnoticed by authorities, who have decided to crack down on irresponsible behaviour in parks, forests, and beaches across Queensland with more hefty fines.
Starting September 15, the fines for three vehicle-related offences previously set at $309 will increase to a much higher amount, similar to road penalties.
Not wearing a seatbelt will set drivers back $1,161, non-compliance with motorbike helmet restrictions will result in a $464 fine, and failure to drive with due care and attention will be met with a $619 fee.
The Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service (QPWS) are implementing the new rules in an effort to reduce the number of collisions and fatalities and assure safety of visitors in areas such as state forests, national parks, and recreation areas.
This comes after recording five fatal crashes in Cooloola, Bribie Island, and K’gari since 2013. Just this year, several serious vehicle rollovers that needed emergency assistance have occurred—with one involving seven teenagers.
Motorists were warned that rangers would not hesitate to hand out the new fines to deter reckless drivers and lessen the risks in the area.
'While most drivers and riders do the right thing while visiting these places, sadly we have seen the tragic consequences of irresponsible motorists, including fatalities and significant injuries,' said Michael Devery, Manager of QPWS Compliance Optimisation.
'The increased fines might hurt if you get one, but they’re a lot less painful than a vehicle rollover or worse.'
'We want everyone to have a safe and enjoyable experience on our beautiful beaches, parks and forests, but it’s up to drivers to do the right thing to make this happen.'
Members, do you agree with the increase in fines? Share your thoughts with us in the comments below!
Unfortunately, there are some who enjoy it a little too recklessly, risking their lives and the lives of others in the process.
These hazards to public safety have not gone unnoticed by authorities, who have decided to crack down on irresponsible behaviour in parks, forests, and beaches across Queensland with more hefty fines.
Queensland will now charge higher fines for motorists who do not follow the rules in parks, forests, and beaches. Image source: wirestock on Freepik.
Starting September 15, the fines for three vehicle-related offences previously set at $309 will increase to a much higher amount, similar to road penalties.
Not wearing a seatbelt will set drivers back $1,161, non-compliance with motorbike helmet restrictions will result in a $464 fine, and failure to drive with due care and attention will be met with a $619 fee.
The Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service (QPWS) are implementing the new rules in an effort to reduce the number of collisions and fatalities and assure safety of visitors in areas such as state forests, national parks, and recreation areas.
This comes after recording five fatal crashes in Cooloola, Bribie Island, and K’gari since 2013. Just this year, several serious vehicle rollovers that needed emergency assistance have occurred—with one involving seven teenagers.
Motorists were warned that rangers would not hesitate to hand out the new fines to deter reckless drivers and lessen the risks in the area.
'While most drivers and riders do the right thing while visiting these places, sadly we have seen the tragic consequences of irresponsible motorists, including fatalities and significant injuries,' said Michael Devery, Manager of QPWS Compliance Optimisation.
'The increased fines might hurt if you get one, but they’re a lot less painful than a vehicle rollover or worse.'
'We want everyone to have a safe and enjoyable experience on our beautiful beaches, parks and forests, but it’s up to drivers to do the right thing to make this happen.'
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