It’s a dangerous trend sweeping the internet that could have a disastrous impact on Aussie roads — dodgy websites announcing fake ‘new road rules’ and made-up penalties for breaking them.
Several websites stated that from November 1, all drivers were required to keep their headlights on “at all times” to boost vehicle visibility. Failure to do so would apparently result in a $250 fine.
But multiple road authorities were quick to shut down the bogus claims.
Transport for NSW confirmed to Yahoo News the new rule was “fake news”, with Transport for NSW Secretary Josh Murray stressing the importance of Aussie drivers knowing the correct road rules.
“Understanding road rules and following them is a responsibility motorists should take seriously, no matter the jurisdiction you are in,” he said.
“The rise of artificial intelligence can generate misinformation, and we’ve seen that recently with claims curfews were to be introduced for drivers over 60 in NSW and large fine increases for anyone caught breaking our road rules — neither true nor remotely accurate.”
Victoria’s Department of Transport reminded motorists in the state that headlights must be used between sunset and sunrise, and in hazardous conditions with reduced visibility, while Queensland’s Department of Transport and Main Roads confirmed there is no rule requiring headlights at all times.
“Reports of new road rules requiring drivers to keep their headlights on at all times are fake,” a Transport and Main Roads spokesperson told Yahoo.
Like all Aussie states and territories, drivers in Queensland must use their headlights at night or in heavy rain and fog. Failure to do so can result in a $166 fine and 1 demerit point.
“We recommend all drivers remain attentive, consider the conditions, and use their lights appropriately to help keep everyone safe on the road,” the spokesperson said.
Fake road rules create mass confusion
Another fake rule that was widely circulated recently claimed drivers could face fines of up to $8,000 for eating, drinking or smoking behind the wheel.
The article falsely reported that drivers in New South Wales could face maximum fines of $2,200 and up to 20 demerit points, while Queenslanders would cop $3,338, and those in the ACT would face $8,000 fines. It also noted South Australians would cop fines.
In September, yet another fake rule went viral stating drivers over 60 would be banned from driving between the hours of 10pm and 5am in Western Australia. After being inundated with calls, the state’s Department of Transport and Major Infrastructure issued a statement denying the reports and explaining they were false.
No defence for drivers who break the law because of AI content
Criminal defence lawyer Avinash Singh previously told Yahoo News he has seen a “significant increase in the spread of misinformation” through AI over the last 12 months.
“The biggest danger attached to people believing AI-generated articles is that a person may erroneously think that a particular action is legal or illegal,” the lawyer from Astor Legal said.
“It is more of an issue when AI articles erroneously suggest actions are legal. People who rely on this will end up committing criminal offences.”
He explained there is a common principle that “ignorance of the law is no excuse”, meaning there is no defence available to drivers who read AI-generated content and take it for fact, or present it in court.
For correct information about road rules in your state, refer to your state’s department of transport.
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