Drivers in the Australian Capital Territory (ACT) need to be extra cautious on the roads as new laws have been implemented to crack down on reckless driving, particularly hooning. Those who are caught exceeding the speed limit by 45km/h could face serious consequences, such as having their vehicle impounded for up to 90 days and their license suspended immediately under the new police laws.
However, the harshest penalties are reserved for individuals engaging in hoon behavior, which includes activities like street racing, burnouts, donuts, and drifting. Offenders risk facing fines of up to $16,000 or even a maximum prison sentence of 12 months. These strict measures aim to deter dangerous driving and ensure the safety of all road users in the ACT.
The recent crackdown on hooning comes in response to incidents like the chaos that ensued during the Summernats festival in January 2024. Attendees of the event were caught performing burnouts and donuts on public roads, leading to the seizure of over a dozen cars by the police. Australian Federal Police’s Acting Inspector Mark Richardson expressed his frustration, referring to the drivers involved as a “sub-species of the human race” and questioning their intelligence.
In light of these events, the ACT Government has hinted at introducing additional laws targeting dangerous driving offenses in the near future. This move underscores the authorities’ commitment to promoting road safety and holding reckless drivers accountable for their actions.
As we navigate these new regulations, it is essential for all drivers, whether local or visiting from interstate, to adhere to the traffic laws and drive responsibly. By staying vigilant and respecting the rules of the road, we can all contribute to creating a safer environment for everyone on the streets of Canberra and beyond. Let’s make sure that our roads are places where all individuals can travel without fear of reckless behavior endangering their lives.
