What is the maximum speed limit on a road outside a built-up area unless otherwise signed in Queensland?

Paying attention to traffic signs helps you drive safely and efficiently. The 3 common types of traffic signs:

• regulatory signs
• warning signs
• guide and information signs

Regulatory signs

You must obey the instructions on these signs.

Stop - Stop and give way as required. If you turn at an intersection, give way to pedestrians crossing the road you are entering.

Give way - Slow down, stop if necessary, and give way as required. If you turn at an intersection, give way to pedestrians crossing the road you are entering.

Roundabout - Slow down or stop and give way to vehicles on the roundabout.

No U-turn - Do not make a U-turn on this length of road.

Wrong way — go back - You are driving in the wrong direction on a one way road.

No turns - Do not turn right, left or make a U-turn – you must only drive in the direction indicated.

No left turn - Do not turn left.

Keep left - You must drive to the left of this sign.

No right turn - Do not turn right or make a U-turn (unless there is a ‘U-turn permitted’ sign).

Two way - Vehicles travel in both directions on this road.

No entry - Do not drive onto the road beyond this sign.

One way - You must drive only in the direction indicated.

No overtaking or passing - Overtaking or passing is not allowed from the NO OVERTAKING OR PASSING sign to:

• a distance as indicated (NEXT…)
• the end of the bridge
• the end of a narrow length of road
• an END NO OVERTAKING OR PASSING sign

Trucks and buses use low gear - Used on steep routes to limit truck and bus speeds without requiring the primary brake.

Keep left unless overtaking - On a multi-lane road, you must not drive in the right lane unless overtaking, turning right, making a U-turn, avoiding an obstacle or driving in congested traffic.

Do not drive faster than the speed shown. In poor conditions, it is safer to drive slower than the limit.

Indicates the speed limit in the area you are about to enter.

The previous speed limit has ended and the general default speed limit applies.

You are leaving the area speed limit and re-entering a general speed limit area.

Some speed limit signs show the times they apply (e.g. school zones). School zones may have flashing lights to draw attention. Other variable speed limit signs have a changeable display, for example in tunnels. These signs seem similar to normal speed signs except they have illuminated white numerals surrounded by red lights on a black background. These signs may also be combined with road control signs to direct traffic.

Shared zone - An area where pedestrians have total priority over all traffic.

End shared zone - If there is no sign indicating a different speed limit, the default speed limit applies.

Warning signs

These signs warn you of hazards.

Hazard markers

You must obey these signs that show the direction to take when driving past hazards.

Unidirectional hazard markers

	Drive to the left of the hazard.
	Drive to the right of the hazard.

Bidirectional hazard marker

Driver either side of the hazard.

Width markers

These signs (normally in pairs) show the width of a bridge, stock grid crossing or narrow section of road.

Drive to the right of the sign.

Drive to the left of the sign.

Guide and information signs

Provide information about safe road use, routes, directions, destinations and points of interest.

	Form one lane - Form a single lane with other drivers.
	Turn left at any time with care - This sign indicates the presence of a slip lane (a lane for left turning traffic separated from the rest of the road by an island).
	Slow vehicles use left lane - Used at the beginning of a long or steep climb where a slow-moving vehicle may delay other vehicles.
	No through road - The road indicated is a dead end.
	Reduce speed now - Slow down from the motorway speed limit to the much slower speed limit on the next section of road.
	Services - The services shown (first aid, tourist information, caravan parks or meals) are available on the road ahead or on a side road.
	Local traffic only - The road past the sign is not intended for through traffic. May appear at the entrance to a local area or at detours where local traffic is allowed to enter the work area.
	Tourist drive information - Indicates a scenic drive that connects a number of tourist attractions.

Traffic lights

Traffic lights control traffic and pedestrians to improve safety and access to roads. Be prepared to react to a light as it is an offence to disobey a red or yellow traffic light.

Stop

Do not drive past the STOP line or traffic light at a red or yellow traffic light/arrow. The yellow light is the start of the red light, not the end of the green. You must STOP on a yellow light, unless it is unsafe (in which case you may proceed).

Drive with caution

A flashing yellow light/arrow means proceed with caution (give way) to avoid a collision.

Drive past the light

Drive through green traffic lights/arrows when clear.

Traffic lights showing a white B light

A bus, taxi, limousine, emergency vehicle or a bicycle, may drive through white B lights.

Turning right at traffic lights

If the light is green and oncoming vehicles are approaching, you should move into the intersection if safe. When a safe gap occurs, complete the turn. If no gap appears until the lights turn yellow or red, complete the turn on the yellow or red light.

Obeying lawful directions

Police officers and Department of Transport and Main Roads inspectors

These people may direct traffic with hand signals (overruling signs and traffic lights).

Stop where indicated and wait	Go as directed	Stop

Traffic controllers

Traffic controllers direct traffic at worksites. Obey lawful directions or signals.

Stop	Go slow	Go slow

Speed limits

Speed limit sign

A speed limit sign has a number in a circle showing the maximum speed in km/h for good conditions (do not exceed to overtake). A lower speed suits poor conditions.

Electronic variable speed limit signs respond in real time to the conditions (e.g. reduced speed for congestion or adverse weather). To indicate a change, the lights surrounding the limit flash. These signs help keep traffic flowing and minimise stop-start driving.

Learner and provisional licence holders

There are no reduced speed limits in Queensland for learner or provisional drivers, just drive according to the speed limit and conditions.

In a built-up area

You should drive at the default speed limit for built-up areas (50km/h), unless you pass a speed limit sign that shows a different limit. A built-up areas include residential, commercial and industrial areas where there are buildings on land next to the road, or street lighting, at intervals of not more than 100m for a distance of 500m. It includes the whole road (if less than 500m long).

Outside a built-up area

The default speed limit on a road outside a built-up area is 100km/h unless otherwise signed. Only drive at 110km/h if there is a speed limit sign. Vehicles over 12t GVM or buses over 5t GVM are restricted to 100km/h, regardless of any higher speed limit.

Specific speed zones

A speed zone is a road that has a specific speed limit. A speed zone is defined by a speed limit sign at the start and another showing a different speed limit at the end. If you turn into another road before you see the end sign, you should use the default speed limits until you see a speed sign. A speed limit on a length of road does not apply to roads leading off from that road.

A variable speed zone has different speed limits applying at different times as shown by special signs that may be electronically controlled (e.g. school zones). The maximum speed limit in a school zone is usually 40km/h or 60km/h as shown. This speed limit applies on school days between the hours shown (otherwise the last speed limit sign before the school zone applies). School zone hours and speed limits may differ, so read the sign. When an electronic sign is blank, follow the speed limit shown on static signs. A variable speed limit zone may also be applied on a motorway, long bridge or in a tunnel. This will be shown through electronic variable speed limit signs and selected static signs.

This sign tells you the recommended speed in good driving conditions through the curves ahead. It shows extra caution and reduced speed is needed temporarily.

Making turns

Turning

Indicate long enough to tell other road users before you turn.

Left turns

• If turning left, position your vehicle close to the left side of the road.
• If there is a slip lane, turn from the slip lane.

When you turn left at an intersection from a multi-lane road, you must approach and enter the intersection from within the left lane unless:

• there is a slip lane
• there is an obstruction in the left lane
• road markings allow the turn to be made from another lane
• your vehicle is showing a DO NOT OVERTAKE TURNING VEHICLE sign

Turning left on a multi-lane road with traffic arrows.

Right turns

When turning right into a two-way road, keep left of the centre of the road you enter. Follow turn lines if marked.

When turning right from a one-way street, keep your vehicle close to the right side of the road and make the turn as indicated from the right lane or as marked.

Turning right at unmarked intersections

When you turn right from a two-way road at an unmarked intersection, pass to the right of the centre of the intersection unless turn lines indicate differently.

Tips – turning

When turning:

• check your road position
• check the road markings
• check traffic signs
• check the direction of traffic
• obey give way rules
• check the position of approaching traffic
• give way to pedestrians crossing the road you are turning into
• make sure your entry position is correct

U-turns

You can make a U-turn only if necessary and if:

• you have a clear view of approaching traffic
• you give way to all traffic and pedestrians including traffic facing STOP or GIVE WAY signs
• you can make a U-turn without obstructing traffic
• there are no signs or road markings prohibiting a U-turn (at traffic lights only make a U-turn if a sign states you can).

Turning across painted traffic islands

You may drive on or over a painted island surrounded by one continuous line for up to 50m to enter or leave the road or enter a turning lane that begins immediately after.

You must not drive on these islands if they are at merge points and separate vehicles travelling in the same direction or if the island creates a slip lane.

Roundabouts

You are approaching a roundabout.	Give way to all vehicles on the roundabout.

• Indicate, if necessary, as you approach and enter.
• Drive clockwise around the roundabout.
• Follow road arrows and direction signs.
• Drive within marked lanes.
• Indicate to change lanes.
• Indicate, if practical, before exiting.

Driving on a roundabout with marked lanes

To make a left turn at the roundabout: signal left as you approach and enter from the left marked lane or line of traffic give way to vehicles already on the roundabout drive in the direction allowed by arrows (if any) continue to signal left as you exit, turn off your indicator after exiting
To drive straight ahead at the roundabout: approach and enter the roundabout from the left or right lane give way to vehicles already on the roundabout drive in the direction allowed by arrows (if any) if practical, signal left as you exit, turn off your indicator after exiting
To make a right or U-turn at the roundabout: signal right as you enter and continue while on the roundabout approach and enter the roundabout from the right marked lane or line of traffic give way to vehicles already on the roundabout drive in the direction allowed by arrows (if any) if practical, signal left as you exit, turn off your indicator after exiting
Left turn – Signal left on approach and continue to signal as you exit. Straight ahead (second left exit) – Signal not required on approach, but if practical, signal left as you exit (same for both lanes). Right turn – Signal right on approach and, if practical, signal left as you exit. (Same for 4).
Lane changes are permitted on roundabouts as long as they are legal and safe. Only use the left lane to leave the roundabout halfway around or earlier (unless arrows indicate otherwise) - the path taken by vehicle 1 is illegal. Cyclists may exit a roundabout from either lane but must give way from the left lane to vehicles exiting the roundabout.

Giving way at roundabouts

At a roundabout you must give way to vehicles already on the roundabout.

Tips – roundabouts

Motorcyclists and cyclists can be hard to see - keep a special lookout. Watch out for large trucks as they may need more space to manoeuvre.

Indicating and signalling

You must signal your intention to:

• stop or slow down (brake lights or hand signal)
• turn right, move right or make a U-turn (indicators or hand signal)
• turn left or move left (indicators only)

Signal for long enough to give sufficient warning (e.g. 5 seconds when moving from a parked position). Turn off your indicator after completing a manoeuvre.

If the continuing road at a T-intersection bends, you must indicate if you are turning off the continuing road and going straight ahead.

Vehicle must indicate right if the continuing road curves left.

Vehicle must indicate left if the continuing road curves right.

Hand signals

There are two official hand signals.

About to stop or slow down.

About to turn, move right or make a U-turn.

Hand signals are the only time a body part may be outside the vehicle. Do not use hand signals to tell drivers to overtake.

Using your horn

You may only use the horn to warn others of your approach or position.

Giving way

Give way means:

• if stopped – remain stationary until it is safe to proceed
• in any other case: slowdown and, if necessary, stop to avoid a collision.

Learn every give way rule before the written test as it is tested in detail. Give way rules are designed to allow road users to move predictably without the danger of a crash.

GIVE WAY and STOP

GIVE WAY and STOP signs are at intersections where care is needed because of limited visibility, or vehicles on the other road have priority. STOP lines (solid lines at intersections) and GIVE WAY lines (broken lines at intersections) have the same meaning as signs and are used in case a sign is missing (applies at railway crossings).

GIVE WAY signs

When you face a GIVE WAY sign/line, you must slow down or, if necessary, stop. You must then give way to vehicles approaching, entering or on the intersection. If you turn, you must also give way to pedestrians crossing the road you are entering. Do not drive past a GIVE WAY sign on a narrow section of road when a vehicle is approaching.

STOP signs

When you face a STOP sign/line, you must bring your vehicle to a complete stop just behind the line or where you have a clear view of the intersection before entering it (if no line). You must give way to vehicles approaching, entering or on the intersection. If you turn, you must also give way to pedestrians crossing the road you are entering.

Giving way at GIVE WAY and STOP signs

When two or more drivers face each other at STOP or GIVE WAY signs at an intersection, they must first give way to all other vehicles and any pedestrians on the road they are entering. They then apply the give way rules:

Vehicle 1 must give way to vehicle 2 because vehicle 1 is turning right across vehicle 2’s path.	Vehicle 2 must give way to vehicle 1 because it is turning right across vehicle 1’s path.

Giving way when changing lanes

When changing lanes, give way to the traffic in the lane you are moving to.

Giving way to the right

When you come to a crossroad intersection without signs or lines, give way to all vehicles on your right. You do not have to give way to vehicles:

• coming from the opposite direction and turning right
• making a U-turn

Giving way when merging

Example 1 - When lines of traffic merge (no marked lines), give way to vehicles ahead. Vehicle B gives way to vehicle A.

Example 2 - If your lane comes to an end, you must give way to traffic in the lane you are moving to. Vehicle A gives way to vehicle B.

Giving way when making a U-turn

You must give way to all vehicles and pedestrians when you make a U-turn, including traffic facing STOP or GIVE WAY signs.

Giving way to emergency vehicles

Do everything practical to give way to an emergency vehicle sounding a siren or flashing lights.

Giving way to buses

Give way to a bus with this sign on its right rear side, when in a built-up area with a speed limit of no more than 70km/h, if the bus is signalling to enter traffic from:

• a bus stop bay
• the shoulder of the road
• the bus zone or bus stop

Giving way from a slip lane with or without a TURN LEFT AT ANY TIME WITH CARE sign at the intersection

When you drive from a slip lane, give way to all bicycles and pedestrians on the slip lane and all vehicles (except vehicles making a u-turn) on the road you are entering.

Giving way at a T-intersection

A T-intersection consists of two roads where one ends at the intersection with a second continuous road. If driving on the road that ends, give way to all vehicles on the road continuing through if they are approaching, entering or on the intersection.

If you are on the road that ends and a vehicle on the road continuing through faces a STOP or GIVE WAY sign, you do not have to give way.

Vehicle 1 is on a continuing road. Vehicle 2 is turning off the continuing road and must give way to oncoming vehicles travelling on the continuing road (vehicle 1).

Reversing

You may reverse only as far as reasonable and only when safe (including on driveways).

Giving way to pedestrians

Always give way to pedestrians crossing the road you are entering.

Giving way at pedestrian crossings

You must give way to pedestrians and cyclists on or entering a pedestrian/children’s crossing. A vehicle stopped to give way at a crossing must not be overtaken.

Giving way when turning right

If you are turning right into a multi-lane road from a single lane road, give way to oncoming vehicles turning left.

If you are turning right at an intersection, give way to oncoming vehicles if they are going straight through or turning left.

You don’t have to give way to a vehicle if it is:

• oncoming and turning right
• driving onto the road from a slip lane
• making a U-turn
• facing a STOP or GIVE WAY sign

You must give way if you are turning across the path of a vehicle.

Giving way when entering or leaving a road

Give way to all road users when leaving a property to enter a road, or entering a property from a road.

Giving way when there are multiple vehicles

When more than 2 vehicles are at an intersection - combine the give way rules.

	Vehicles 1 and 3 are not required to give way to any other vehicle. Vehicle 2 must give way to vehicle 3 coming on the right.
	Vehicle 1 must give way to vehicle 2 on the right. Vehicle 2 does not have to give way to any other vehicle. Vehicle 3 must give way to vehicle 1 on the right. Vehicles 2 and 3 aren’t required to give way to one another as their paths do not cross.

Giving way from a parked position

When driving out of a park, signal for at least 5 seconds and give way to other vehicles.

Giving way at a railway level crossing

Give way to trains at a GIVE WAY or STOP sign/line at a level crossing.

Giving way to horses

Give way when a person in charge of a hard to control horse gives a signal (raising a hand and pointing to the horse). Stop on the side of the road and turn off the engine. Remain stationary with the engine off until there is no chance noise or movement from your vehicle will further upset the horse.

Road markings

Lanes

Lane markings

There are 4 types of lane markings indicating where you must travel:

• lane lines
• dividing lines or centre lines
• edge lines
• arrows

Lane lines

Lane lines are usually broken. You can cross broken lines to turn or overtake. However, lane lines are continuous (unbroken) close to a controlled situation (e.g. traffic lights or a STOP sign). Do not cross continuous lane lines to turn or overtake (though they can be crossed to pass a cyclist). Motorcyclists may cross continuous lines when lane filtering.

Dividing lines or centre lines

You may cross a single broken dividing line to overtake, U-turn or enter/leave a road.

You may cross a single continuous dividing line to enter/leave a road, or pass a cyclist. Do not cross a single continuous dividing line to overtake or U-turn.

You may cross a dividing line that has a broken line to the left of a continuous line to overtake, U-turn or enter/leave a road.

You may cross a dividing line that has a continuous line to the left of a broken line to enter/leave a road, or pass a cyclist. You must not cross a continuous line to the left of a broken line to overtake or U-turn.

Entering/leaving a road includes turning into another road and private property.

Do not cross a dividing line that has two continuous lines (except to pass a cyclist).

Do not cross a dividing line that has a continuous line or a continuous line to the left of a broken line to U-turn.

Edge lines

Do not drive on or over a continuous white edge line unless:

• driving a slow-moving vehicle
• riding a bicycle
• overtaking a vehicle turning right or making a U-turn from the centre of the road
• driving a vehicle that is too wide or long to fit in the marked lane
• riding a motorcycle on a road shoulder or in an emergency stopping lane

You can drive on or over a continuous white edge line for up to 100m only if:

• turning at an intersection
• entering or leaving the road
• stopping at the side of the road

Note: A driver turning left from a multi-lane road must turn from the marked or slip lane.

Arrows

In a lane marked with arrows, drive only in the direction/s indicated.

Overhead lane control

A LANE CONTROLS END sign means you may use any lane after the sign even if there were red crosses showing previously.

Special purpose lanes

Some lanes are only for certain vehicles.

Bus lane

Only a bus, taxi, limousine, or bicycle can drive in a bus lane.

Transit lane

• Transit lane T2 – must have at least 2 people in the vehicle.
• Transit lane T3 – must have at least 3 people in the vehicle.

Bicycle lane

Bicycle lanes are for cyclists. You may stop/park in a bicycle lane unless there are signs or road markings prohibiting it. Give way to bicycles when moving into a bicycle lane.

Exemptions for driving in special purpose lanes

You may drive in a bicycle lane for 50m and other special purpose lanes for 100m to:

• enter or leave a road
• overtake a vehicle turning right or making a U-turn from the centre of the road
• enter a marked lane or line of traffic from the side of the road

Keeping left

Drive as close as practical to the left on a two-way road. You could be fined for driving in the far right lane on a multi-lane road with a speed limit over 90km/h unless:

• overtaking
• turning right
• making a U-turn
• avoiding an obstacle
• an official traffic sign indicates you can
• traffic is congested

Overtaking

Overtaking on the right

Overtake only if you have a clear view of approaching traffic and it is safe.

If you are being overtaken

When you are being overtaken do not speed up.

Follow these steps for safer overtaking

1. Keep a safe following distance behind.
2. Check ahead for approaching traffic.
3. Check behind for other vehicles.
4. Signal right to give sufficient warning.
5. Accelerate and move right (do not exceed the speed limit).
6. Turn off right indicator.
7. Signal left when clear of the vehicle you are overtaking.
8. Move back to the left lane as soon as it is safe.
9. Turn off left indicator.

Overtaking more than one vehicle at a time increases your risk of a crash.

Overtaking on the left

You can overtake on the left if:

• on a multi-lane road, the vehicle can be overtaken in a marked lane to the left
• the vehicle is indicating to turn right or make a U-turn from the centre of the road
• the vehicle is stationary and it is safe to do so
• you are lane filtering or riding on a road shoulder or emergency stopping lane

You can overtake a vehicle on the left on a multi-lane road, if the vehicle is turning right or if the vehicle is stationary and it is safe.

Overtake correctly or the results could be fatal. Before overtaking, consider:

• Is it necessary?
• Could I wait?
• Is it safe?
• Is it legal?
• What are the road markings?
• What is my speed?

Overtaking or passing

NO OVERTAKING OR PASSING:

• Do not drive past this sign when an oncoming vehicle is approaching.
• Do not overtake after you have passed this sign.
  

NO OVERTAKING ON BRIDGE

Do not overtake any vehicle on a bridge where this sign appears.

Overtaking long vehicles

A long vehicle on a multi-lane road may use the left-hand lane or the marked lane next to the left lane to turn left. It’s the same for a right turn - they may use the right-hand lane or the marked lane next to the right lane.

Overtaking cyclists

Leave a safe distance between you and a cyclist when overtaking or passing.

Motorway and highway driving

Motorways are divided roads designed for fast-moving vehicles.

For safety, slower vehicles and pedestrians are not allowed on these roads. Most motorway entrances list the vehicles not allowed on the road.

If you face the sign, WRONG WAY – GO BACK, as you enter a motorway, stop and reverse when safe – you’re on an exit ramp.

On a motorway you must:

• be prepared to give way to vehicles as you enter along the on-ramp
• not stop, except in an emergency or if you break down. If you stop, use the emergency lane/bay and your hazard lights
• not travel in the emergency lane
• not make U-turns
• not drive in the right-hand lane unless overtaking, avoiding an obstruction or travelling in congested traffic
• check behind and signal before you overtake
• signal long enough to give sufficient warning before you change lanes
• enter the exit lane and slow to the signed speed when leaving the motorway

Tips – motorway driving

• Plan your route before you enter a motorway.
• When entering the motorway, look for a gap in the closest lane and build speed on the on-ramp so you enter at the speed of the traffic.
• Watch for vehicles entering from an on-ramp and adjust your speed to allow them to enter.
• Be in the correct lane as your exit approaches.
• Continue to the next exit if you miss yours.

Hazardous localities

Roadwork sites

Roadworks ensure safe, efficient and convenient roads for everyone.

Roadwork signs

Roadwork signs are for safety and enforceable by law. Disobeying them means:

• you are committing an offence (penalties = fines and demerit points)
• you may be liable for damage caused to equipment and materials
• insurance claims may be void
• vehicles may be damaged by loose gravel

The ROADWORK AHEAD sign gives advance warning of sites. Be prepared for changed conditions and slow down if required.
The workers sign is a temporary warning, used only while applicable, that roadworkers are ahead on or adjacent to the travelled path. Drive with due care for your own and roadworkers’ safety.
This multi-message sign warns of sites, and imposes a speed limit.
This multi-message sign warns roadworkers are ahead on or adjacent to the road, and imposes a speed limit.
The SPEED LIMIT sign at roadworks creates a temporary speed zone that applies until the next speed limit sign.
The STOP/SLOW bat is used by a traffic controller. STOP = stop a safe distance from the traffic controller and wait. SLOW = proceed with caution.
The TRAFFIC CONTROLLER AHEAD/PREPARE TO STOP sign warns that traffic may be required to stop ahead and is only used when a traffic controller is on duty.
The PREPARE TO STOP and SIGNALS AHEAD signs warn of temporary traffic signals.
Be prepared to obey the traffic signals ahead.
The STOP HERE ON RED SIGNAL sign indicates where to stop at a red light. There may or may not be a STOP line marked.
The TRAFFIC HAZARD AHEAD sign warns of unexpected hazards ahead in emergencies. Take care and drive to the conditions.
The SLIPPERY ROAD sign warns of hazardous road surface conditions. Take care and drive to the conditions.
The LOOSE STONES sign warns of hazardous road surface conditions. Take care and drive to the conditions.
The LANE STATUS signs warn that 1 or more lanes are closed ahead. Bars = closed lanes, arrows = open lanes.
The LINE MARKERS ON ROAD and SURVEYORS AHEAD signs warn that line markers or surveyors are working ahead on or adjacent to the road (only used while workers are in the area). Drive with care for your own and roadworkers’ safety.
The ROAD PLANT AHEAD sign is used where machinery is working on the roadway. Take care and be prepared for plant being operated without any form of delineation or traffic control.
The ROAD WORK supplementary plate may be used with a SPEED RESTRICTION sign.
The END ROADWORK sign defines the end of a site. It does not cancel any previous speed limit - roadwork speed limits apply until the next speed sign.
This multi-message sign defines the end of a site and reinstates the speed limit.

Reduced speed limits through roadworks

• Speeding vehicles threaten the safety of other drivers and roadworkers.
• While under construction or repair, the road surface may not be safe at the normal speed.
• Loose gravel may damage vehicles.
• Road surfaces may be uneven.
• Road lanes may have narrowed.
• Roadworkers may not always be visible when working.
• When roads are widened, kilometres of utilities (pipes, electrical and phone lines) have to be relocated, which takes time.
• Some roadwork jobs are mobile (line markings, road patching and mowing) and reduced speed limits increase safety.

Railway level crossings

Disobeying road rules near railway crossings can be fatal as crashes here are generally more severe because trains are heavy and fast. Yellow painted cross-hatching at a level crossing is legally part of the crossing.

Stopping and giving way at a level crossing

You must stop at a STOP sign/line and give way to trains. You must give way at a GIVE WAY sign/line to any trains.

Entering or leaving a level crossing

Do not enter a level crossing if:

• warning lights/bells or boom gates are operating
• you can see or hear a train approaching
• the road beyond the crossing is blocked

Get off the crossing as soon as you can do so safely.

At a level crossing where boom gates or flashing lights are not installed, extra care should be taken

• Slow down, or stop if facing a STOP sign, look both ways and listen for trains.
• Take care if sun, fog, vegetation or buildings obscure your view of the tracks.
• If stopped for a train, don’t move until warning lights (if installed) have stopped flashing, and you have checked another train is not approaching.

Alcohol and drugs

Alcohol

Drink driving

Alcohol impairs your ability to drive and increases your crash risk by affecting your judgment, vision, coordination and reflexes. Do not drive if the level of alcohol in your blood is over the limit for the licence you hold or the vehicle you drive.

When you are over the alcohol limit

You will be over the limit if the concentration of alcohol in your blood is more than the relevant alcohol limit:

• no alcohol limit – 0.00
• general alcohol limit – 0.05
• middle alcohol limit – 0.10
• high alcohol limit – 0.15 (equal or greater than)

Police regularly carry out random breath tests to detect/deter drink drivers. Refusing to take a roadside breath test is an offence.

What your alcohol limit should be

If you drive when over your alcohol limit

You may be charged and, if convicted, face serious penalties:

• your licence will be cancelled
• you will be fined and may be jailed
• you will be disqualified from holding/obtaining a further licence for a period
• you may be required to comply with the Alcohol Ignition Interlock Program

If you crash when over your alcohol limit, comprehensive insurance will not apply and you will have to pay for damages. Compulsory Third Party insurance may be affected.

Tip – how to avoid drink driving

• If you plan to drink - stay overnight or plan alternative travel (taxi, public transport, non-drinking driver).
• Discourage people from driving when they’ve been drinking.
• Nominate a non-drinking driver.
• Serve non- and low-alcohol drinks. Let people ask for a refill rather than topping up so they can count drinks.
• Do not mix drugs and alcohol.

Drink walking

Alcohol also impairs your ability to walk and judge traffic safely. It is not a safe alternative to drink driving. Avoid walking or driving. If you are walking while drunk:

• Catch public transport, a courtesy bus, a taxi or get a lift with a sober driver.
• Walk with sober friends - a group is more visible.
• Walk on the footpath (not the road) and, if there isn’t one, walk along the edge facing oncoming traffic.
• Cross at traffic lights, crossings or crosswalks (if none, cross under a streetlight).
• Carry or wear something light/reflective to increase visibility.

Drugs and driving

Many drugs can impair your ability to drive (and increase crash risk) by affecting your vision, mood, judgment, muscle control, reflexes, coordination and level of alertness. Combining drugs with alcohol further increases the risk.

Over-the-counter and prescribed medications

• Ask your doctor or pharmacist if medication can impair your driving.
• Avoid driving if you are taking medications that affect driving.
• Read the consumer information and take note of the warning label.

Illegal drugs

• Illegal drugs (e.g. cannabis, speed, ecstasy and heroin) can affect your driving.
• Never drive if you have consumed illegal drugs.

Mix at your own risk

• Mixing drugs, or mixing drugs and alcohol, can affect your ability driving.

If you are caught drug driving

If a police officer reasonably suspects that your driving is impaired by any drug, you may be required to provide blood for analysis, and you may be charged. Police conduct random roadside saliva tests for illegal drugs. There is no legal limit - if detected, you will be penalised. If you fail to provide a specimen or a drug is detected, you will be charged and, if convicted, face serious penalties:

• your driver licence will be cancelled
• you will be disqualified from holding/obtaining a further licence for a period
• you will be fined and may be jailed

If you crash while under the influence of drugs, your comprehensive insurance cover will not apply and you will have to pay for any damage caused. Compulsory Third Party insurance may also be affected.

Heavy vehicles

Maximum vehicle dimensions

Vehicles exceeding these dimensions are required to operate under specific guidelines.

Long vehicles

Only vehicles 7.5m or more in length (including a car towing a caravan) are allowed to show a DO NOT OVERTAKE TURNING VEHICLE sign. When displayed, these vehicles may turn left from, or partly from, the lane next to the left lane. These vehicles can also turn right from, or partly from, the lane next to the right lane.

If driving a long vehicle (7.5m or longer):

• drive at least 60m behind another long vehicle in front of you, unless you are driving on a multi-lane road, on a length of road in a built-up area, or overtaking
• if driving a road train, drive at least 200m behind another long vehicle in front.

Loading your vehicle

Failing to secure loads safely on a heavy vehicle risks injury to you and road users and a large damages bill. Correct positioning involves centering and evening the load so there is no tilt in any direction. The load of a heavy vehicle must not be more than the regulated mass for an axle, axle group, the vehicle’s GVM/GCM (whichever is the least), or the registered seating capacity. Vehicles with a 4.5t GVM or more must enter a weighbridge checking station (if open or directed by an authorised officer).

All loading must be fastened safely and correctly. If you are carrying iron, timber, piping or similar material, it should be parallel with the sides of the vehicle and fastened to not flap or sway. If you are carrying a loose load (gravel or quarry products), it must be loaded so that no part can fall or dislodge during transport. If you carry freight containers, be aware of container height differences. The safest way to secure containers is using twist locks. Freight containers transported by road must have a container weight declaration. Fully loaded, you should have a good view to the front, on both sides and behind (using mirrors).

Queensland law requires all loads to be restrained to the standards of the Load Restraint Guide which outlines the safety principles to be followed to ensure safe carriage of loads - all heavy vehicle drivers should have a copy.

Any part of a load that falls should be removed from the road as soon as possible.

Parking restrictions for heavy and long vehicles

Heavy (GVM of 4.5t or more) or long (7.5m or more in length) vehicles must not stop for more than 1 hour in built-up areas unless:

• signs permit
• you are actively dropping off or picking up goods
• a local government law allows you to stop longer

Warning signs

If you are driving a vehicle that is required to display specific signs (e.g. ROAD TRAIN, LONG VEHICLE, OVERSIZE, OVERSIZE LOAD AHEAD or SLOW VEHICLE), always remove or cover any sign that is not applicable.

Speed limiters

Heavy vehicles over 12t GVM or buses over 5t GVM are restricted to a maximum speed of 100km/h (regardless of higher limits shown on signs). Speed limiters are compulsory for trucks:

• over 12t GVM built after 1 July 1991
• with engines up to 300hp (224kW)
• with higher horsepower engines built after 1 January 1991

Buses over 14.5t GVM or prime movers are to be fitted with speed limiters if they were manufactured after 1987. Buses over 5t GVM and up to 14.5t GVM have speed limiters fitted from 1 July 1991.

If a vehicle is required to be speed limited, penalties apply for using or allowing others to use the vehicle without a properly functioning speed limiter.

A heavy vehicle caught in excess of 110km/h will be issued a defect notice. It will be required to comply with Australian Design Rule (ADR) 65/00 and will not be allowed to operate until all repairs or modifications have been completed and cleared.

Portable warning signs

A vehicle (including those with trailers) carrying a placard load of dangerous goods or weighing more than 12t must carry 3 portable triangular, red, reflective warning signs.

If the speed limit on the road is less than 80km/h

Display portable warning signs if your vehicle has broken down or has lost load, and your vehicle or load is not visible for 200m in all directions. 1 triangle should be placed:

• between 50m and 150m in front of the vehicle
• between 50m and 150m to the rear of the vehicle
• to the side of the vehicle, or fallen load, in a position that gives sufficient warning

If the speed limit on the road is more than 80km/h

Display portable warning signs if your vehicle has broken down or has lost load, and your vehicle or load is not visible for 300m in all directions. 1 triangle should be placed:

• between 200m and 250m in front of the vehicle
• between 200m and 250m to the rear of the vehicle
• to the side of the vehicle, or fallen load, in a position that gives sufficient warning

Driver fatigue

All drivers of the following vehicles must comply with fatigue management legislation:

• heavy vehicles
• a combination (with a GVM of more than 12t)
• buses more than 4.5t (with a capacity of more than 12 adults, including driver)

Under the fatigue chain of responsibility provision, parties in the logistics chain must take all reasonable steps to ensure drivers don’t drive impaired by fatigue.

If you experience a sign of fatigue, rest until it is no longer present. They include:

• lack of alertness
• inability to concentrate
• poor judgment or memory
• making more mistakes than usual
• changes to health or fitness
• blurred vision
• difficulty keeping eyes open
• not feeling refreshed after sleep
• excessive head nodding or yawning
• needing more frequent naps than usual
• reduced ability to recognise or respond to external stimuli
• drowsiness or falling asleep (including micro sleeps)
• mood changes, increased irritability or other changes to mental health

The national driver work diary

All drivers of fatigue regulated heavy vehicles must record work and rest times in their national driver work diary during any trip further than 100km(A) from their driver base.

When applying for a national work diary:

• present your current licence and national driver work diary (if you have one)
• complete the application form in the work diary in front of the issuing officer
• pay the application fee

Standard hours

Basic fatigue management

(A) Under the fatigue provisions in the HVNL drivers operating more than 100km from their base are required to carry and complete a national driver work diary (B) Stationary rest time out of a regulated heavy vehicle or in an approved sleeper berth (C) Night rest breaks are 7 continuous hours stationary rest time taken between 10pm on a day and 8am the next day (using the base time zone) or 24 continuous hours of stationary rest break

(D) Long/night is work time in excess of 12 hours in a 24-hour period or any work time between midnight and 6am (or the equivalent hours in the base time zone)