Major driving licence update may affect over one million Aussie drivers
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The open road could be a place of freedom and joy.
However, it also comes with a significant responsibility.
For those who enjoy the thrill of driving—especially those with a penchant for high-powered vehicles—a vital update could set a precedent nationwide.
For the first time in Australian history, over one million South Australian drivers could face stricter requirements should they plan to drive ultra-high-powered vehicles (UHPVs).
Starting in December, drivers will be required to complete an interactive online course to educate them on the risks associated with UHPVs.
The course will cover vehicle features, safety systems, maintenance, laws, and penalties to compel drivers to take responsibility for their actions behind the wheel.
According to South Australian road authorities, UHPVs are any vehicle with a power-to-weight ratio of 276 kilowatts per tonne or more.
This classification excludes buses, motorbikes, and trikes.
The change was a response to a tragic event that sparked a nationwide conversation about road safety and driver accountability.
In 2019, 15-year-old Sophia Naismith was struck by an out-of-control Lamborghini, leading to her death.
The incident not only devastated her family but also raised questions about which drivers can use UHPVs on public roads.
Thanks to the Naismith family's calls for accountability, South Australia introduced a specific U-class licence for UHPV drivers.
The state's Minister for Infrastructure and Transport, Tom Koutsantonis, expressed pride in introducing the new requirements.
'Through practical modules, we're compelling drivers to take responsibility and be aware of the additional risks that come with driving a UHPV,' Koutsantonis shared.
This initiative was also part of a broader conversation about road safety in Australia.
According to the Bureau of Infrastructure and Transport Research Economics (BITRE), road tolls rose by 7.3 per cent in the past 12 months—indicating a clear need for action.
Ideas such as special licences for recreational vehicles and refresher courses for licence renewal have also emerged nationwide.
Road safety expert Professor Andre Rakotonirainy also pointed out that there's no 'silver bullet' for road safety.
While reacting to specific crashes can lead to positive changes, a sustainable approach to reducing road fatalities would require a multifaceted strategy.
While the licensing requirement will not take effect nationwide yet, it's a reminder to stay vigilant on the road.
Whether you're driving a family sedan or a luxury sports car, the principles of safe driving remain the same.
After all, the thrill of driving should never come at the cost of safety.
What are your thoughts on these new licensing requirements? Will these rules make our roads safer? Let us know your thoughts in the comment below.
However, it also comes with a significant responsibility.
For those who enjoy the thrill of driving—especially those with a penchant for high-powered vehicles—a vital update could set a precedent nationwide.
For the first time in Australian history, over one million South Australian drivers could face stricter requirements should they plan to drive ultra-high-powered vehicles (UHPVs).
Starting in December, drivers will be required to complete an interactive online course to educate them on the risks associated with UHPVs.
The course will cover vehicle features, safety systems, maintenance, laws, and penalties to compel drivers to take responsibility for their actions behind the wheel.
The upcoming regulations aim to promote better driving practices in South Australia. Image Credit: Shutterstock/nblx
According to South Australian road authorities, UHPVs are any vehicle with a power-to-weight ratio of 276 kilowatts per tonne or more.
This classification excludes buses, motorbikes, and trikes.
The change was a response to a tragic event that sparked a nationwide conversation about road safety and driver accountability.
In 2019, 15-year-old Sophia Naismith was struck by an out-of-control Lamborghini, leading to her death.
The incident not only devastated her family but also raised questions about which drivers can use UHPVs on public roads.
Thanks to the Naismith family's calls for accountability, South Australia introduced a specific U-class licence for UHPV drivers.
The state's Minister for Infrastructure and Transport, Tom Koutsantonis, expressed pride in introducing the new requirements.
'Through practical modules, we're compelling drivers to take responsibility and be aware of the additional risks that come with driving a UHPV,' Koutsantonis shared.
This initiative was also part of a broader conversation about road safety in Australia.
According to the Bureau of Infrastructure and Transport Research Economics (BITRE), road tolls rose by 7.3 per cent in the past 12 months—indicating a clear need for action.
Ideas such as special licences for recreational vehicles and refresher courses for licence renewal have also emerged nationwide.
Road safety expert Professor Andre Rakotonirainy also pointed out that there's no 'silver bullet' for road safety.
While reacting to specific crashes can lead to positive changes, a sustainable approach to reducing road fatalities would require a multifaceted strategy.
While the licensing requirement will not take effect nationwide yet, it's a reminder to stay vigilant on the road.
Whether you're driving a family sedan or a luxury sports car, the principles of safe driving remain the same.
After all, the thrill of driving should never come at the cost of safety.
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