Australian Road Rules (NSW)

Part 1IntroductoryDivision 1General1Australian Road Rules

These rules are the Australian Road Rules.

2Commencement

The Australian Road Rules commence on 1 December 1999 or, if an earlier date is fixed under another law of this jurisdiction, that earlier date.

3Object of the Australian Road Rules

The object of the Australian Road Rules is to provide road rules in this jurisdiction that are uniform with road rules elsewhere in Australia.

Division 2Some features of the Australian Road Rules4Definitions—the dictionary etc(1)

The dictionary at the end of the Australian Road Rules defines certain words and expressions, and includes references to certain words and expressions defined elsewhere in the Rules (signpost definitions).

Example—

The signpost definition “road-related area see rule 13” means that the expression road-related area is defined in rule 13 of the Australian Road Rules.

Note—

The dictionary only includes a signpost definition for a word or expression if the word or expression is used in 2 or more rules of the Australian Road Rules.

(2)

The dictionary is part of the Australian Road Rules.

(3)

A definition in the Australian Road Rules applies to each use of the word or expression in the Rules, unless the contrary intention appears.

5Diagrams

A diagram in the Australian Road Rules is part of the Rules.

Note 1—

If a diagram of a traffic control device, traffic-related item or symbol is in black and white in a rule of the Australian Road Rules, the diagram may be a black and white version of the device, item or symbol—see rule 314. If so, the colour version of the device, item or symbol will be in Schedule 2 or 4.

Note 2—

A diagram may be an example—see rule 6 (1).

6Examples(1)

An example (whether or not in the form of a diagram) in the Australian Road Rules is part of the Rules.

(2)

If the Australian Road Rules includes an example of the operation of a provision of the Rules:

• (a)

  the example is not exhaustive, and

• (b)

  the example does not limit, but may extend, the meaning of the provision.

7Headings

A heading to a Part, Division, Schedule, rule or any other provision of the Australian Road Rules is part of the Rules.

8Notes

A note in the Australian Road Rules is explanatory and is not part of the Rules.

9Reader’s Guide

The Reader’s Guide is not part of the Australian Road Rules.

10Offences(1)

The words “Offence provision.” in a rule of the Australian Road Rules (or, if the rule has 2 or more subrules, in a subrule) indicates that a contravention of the rule (or subrule) is an offence.

(2)

The penalty for an offence is the penalty applying to the offence under another law of this jurisdiction.

Part 2Application of the Australian Road RulesDivision 1Roads and road-related areas11Australian Road Rules apply to vehicles and road users on roads and road-related areas(1)

The Australian Road Rules apply to vehicles and road users on roads and road-related areas.

Note—

Road is defined in rule 12, road-related area is defined in rule 13, road user is defined in rule 14, and vehicle is defined in rule 15.

(2)

Each reference in the Australian Road Rules (except in this Division) to a road includes a reference to a road-related area, unless otherwise expressly stated in the Rules.

Examples for subrule (2)—

• 1

  A reference in rule 146 (which deals with driving within a single marked lane or line of traffic) to the road includes a reference to the road-related area of the road.

• 2

  A reference in rule 200 (1) (which deals with certain heavy or long vehicles stopping on roads) to a length of road includes a reference to the road-related area of the length of road.

• 3

  A reference in rule 31 (which deals with starting a right turn from a road, except a multi-lane road) to a road does not include a reference to a road-related area, because of the definition in subrule (5) of that rule.

12What is a road(1)

A road is an area that is open to or used by the public and is developed for, or has as one of its main uses, the driving or riding of motor vehicles.

Note—

Motor vehicle is defined in the dictionary.

(2)

However, unless the contrary intention appears, a reference in the Australian Road Rules (except in this Division) to a road does not include a reference to:

• (a)

  an area so far as the area is declared, under another law of this jurisdiction, not to be a road for the Australian Road Rules, or

• (b)

  any shoulder of the road.

(3)

The shoulder of the road includes any part of the road that is not designed to be used by motor vehicles in travelling along the road, and includes:

• (a)

  for a kerbed road—any part of the kerb, and

• (b)

  for a sealed road—any unsealed part of the road, and any sealed part of the road outside an edge line on the road,

but does not include a bicycle path, footpath or shared path.

Note—

Bicycle path is defined in rule 239, edge line and footpath are defined in the dictionary, and shared path is defined in rule 242.

13What is a road-related area(1)

A road-related area is any of the following:

• (a)

  an area that divides a road,

• (b)

  a footpath or nature strip adjacent to a road,

• (c)

  an area that is not a road and that is open to the public and designated for use by cyclists or animals,

• (d)

  an area that is not a road and that is open to or used by the public for driving, riding or parking vehicles.

Note—

Vehicle is defined in rule 15.

(2)

However, unless the contrary intention appears, a reference in the Australian Road Rules (except in this Division) to a road-related area includes a reference to:

• (a)

  an area so far as the area is declared, under another law of this jurisdiction, to be a road-related area for the Australian Road Rules, or

• (b)

  any shoulder of a road, or

• (c)

  any other area that is a footpath or nature strip as defined in the dictionary,

but does not include a reference to an area so far as the area is declared, under another law of this jurisdiction, not to be a road-related area for the Australian Road Rules.

Note—

Shoulder is defined in rule 12.

Division 2Road users and vehicles14Road users

A road user is a driver, rider, passenger or pedestrian.

Note—

Driver is defined in rule 16, pedestrian is defined in rule 18, and rider is defined in rule 17.

15What is a vehicle

A vehicle includes:

• (a)

  a motor vehicle, trailer and tram, and

• (b)

  a bicycle, and

• (c)

  an animal-drawn vehicle, and an animal that is being ridden or drawing a vehicle, and

• (d)

  a combination, and

• (e)

  a motorised wheelchair that can travel at over 10 kilometres per hour (on level ground),

but does not include another kind of wheelchair, a train, or a wheeled recreational device or wheeled toy.

Note—

Various terms mentioned in this rule are defined in the dictionary.

16Who is a driver(1)

A driver is the person who is driving a vehicle (except a motor bike, bicycle, animal or animal-drawn vehicle).

Note 1—

Bicycle and motor bike are defined in the dictionary, and vehicle is defined in rule 15.

Note 2—

Drive includes be in control of—see the definition in the dictionary.

(2)

However, a driver does not include a person pushing a motorised wheelchair.

Note—

Wheelchair is defined in the dictionary.

17Who is a rider(1)

A rider is the person who is riding a motor bike, bicycle, animal or animal-drawn vehicle.

Note 1—

Bicycle and motor bike are defined in the dictionary.

Note 2—

Ride, for the rider of a motor bike or animal-drawn vehicle, includes be in control of—see the definition in the dictionary.

(2)

A rider does not include:

• (a)

  a passenger, or

• (b)

  a person walking beside and pushing a bicycle.

18Who is a pedestrian

A pedestrian includes:

• (a)

  a person driving a motorised wheelchair that cannot travel at over 10 kilometres per hour (on level ground), and

• (b)

  a person in a non-motorised wheelchair, and

• (c)

  a person pushing a motorised or non-motorised wheelchair, and

• (d)

  a person in or on a wheeled recreational device or wheeled toy.

Note—

Wheelchair, wheeled recreational device and wheeled toy are defined in the dictionary.

19References to driver includes rider etc

Unless otherwise expressly stated in the Australian Road Rules, each reference in the Rules (except in this Division) to a driver includes a reference to a rider, and each reference in the Rules (except in this Division) to driving includes a reference to riding.

Part 3Speed-limits20Obeying the speed-limit

A driver must not drive at a speed over the speed-limit applying to the driver for the length of road where the driver is driving.

Offence provision.

Note 1—

The rules about speed-limits are as follows:

• •

  rule 21—speed-limit where a speed-limit sign applies

• •

  rule 22—speed-limit in a speed-limited area

• •

  rule 23—speed-limit in a school zone

• •

  rule 24—speed-limit in a shared zone

• •

  rule 25—speed-limit elsewhere.

Note 2—

Road includes a road-related area—see rule 11 (2).

Note 3—

Length of road includes a marked lane, a part of a marked lane, or another part of a length of road—see the definition in the dictionary.

Note 4—

Part 20, Division 2 deals with the way in which a traffic sign applies to a length of road. Part 20, Division 3 deals with the way in which the traffic sign applies to drivers driving on the length of road.

21Speed-limit where a speed-limit sign applies(1)

The speed-limit applying to a driver for a length of road to which a speed-limit sign applies is the number of kilometres per hour indicated by the number on the sign.

Note—

Length of road is defined in the dictionary.

(2)

However, if the number on the speed-limit sign is over 100 and the driver is driving a bus with a GVM over 5 tonnes, or another vehicle with a GVM over 12 tonnes, the speed-limit applying to the driver for the length of road is 100 kilometres per hour.

Note 1—

Bus and GVM are defined in the dictionary, and vehicle is defined in rule 15.

Note 2—

Five tonnes is specified for the definition of heavy omnibus in the Australian Design Rules issued under the Motor Vehicle Standards Act 1989 (Cth).

Note 3—

If the vehicle is an oversize or overmass vehicle, the vehicle may be restricted to a lower speed-limit under another law of this jurisdiction.

(3)

A speed-limit sign on a road applies to the length of road beginning at the sign and ending at the nearest of the following:

• (a)

  a speed-limit sign on the road with a different number on the sign,

• (b)

  an end speed-limit sign or speed derestriction sign on the road,

• (c)

  if the road ends at a T-intersection or dead end—the end of the road.

Note 1—

T-intersection is defined in the dictionary.

Note 2—

Rule 322 (1) and (2) deal with the meaning of a traffic sign on a road.

Speed-limit signs
Speed-limit sign(Standard sign)	Speed-limit sign(Variable illuminated message sign)
Other signs
End speed-limit sign	Speed derestriction sign

Note 1 for diagrams—

There is another permitted version of the speed-limit sign and the end speed-limit sign—see the diagrams in Schedule 3.

Note 2 for diagrams—

A speed-limit sign or end speed-limit sign may have a different number on the sign—see rule 316 (4).

22Speed-limit in a speed-limited area(1)

The speed-limit applying to a driver for any length of road in a speed-limited area is the number of kilometres per hour indicated by the number on the area speed-limit sign on a road into the area, unless another speed-limit applies to the driver for the length of road under another rule of this Part.

Example of another speed-limit—

Although an area speed-limit sign on a road into a speed-limited area may indicate a speed-limit of 60 kilometres per hour, a particular length of road in the area may have a school zone sign indicating a 40 kilometres per hour speed-limit for that length of road.

Note—

Length of road is defined in the dictionary.

(2)

A speed-limited area is the network of roads in an area with:

• (a)

  an area speed-limit sign on each road into the area, indicating the same number, and

• (b)

  an end area speed-limit sign on each road out of the area.

(3)

In subrule (2) (a) and (b):

road does not include a road-related area.

Note—

Road-related area is defined in rule 13.

Area speed-limit sign End area speed-limit sign

Note 1 for diagrams—

There are a number of other permitted versions of each of these signs—see the diagrams in Schedule 3.

Note 2 for diagrams—

An area speed-limit sign or end area speed-limit sign may have a different number on the sign—see rule 316 (4).

23Speed-limit in a school zone(1)

The speed-limit applying to a driver for any length of road in a school zone is the number of kilometres per hour indicated by the number on the school zone sign on a road, or the road, into the zone.

Note 1—

Length of road is defined in the dictionary.

Note 2—

A school zone sign may indicate that it applies only at certain times, on certain days or in certain circumstances—see rules 317 and 318.

Note 3—

This subrule applies to road-related areas in the school zone—see rule 11 (2).

(2)

A school zone is:

• (a)

  if there is a school zone sign and an end school zone sign, or a speed-limit sign with a different number on the sign, on a road and there is no intersection on the length of road between the signs—that length of road, or

• (b)

  if there is a school zone sign on a road that ends in a dead end and there is no intersection, nor a sign mentioned in paragraph (a), on the length of road beginning at the sign and ending at the dead end—that length of road, or

• (c)

  in any other case—the network of roads in an area with:

  • (i)

    a school zone sign on each road into the area, indicating the same number, and

  • (ii)

    an end school zone sign, or a speed-limit sign indicating a different number, on each road out of the area.

Note—

Intersection is defined in the dictionary.

(3)

In subrule (2) (c) (i) and (ii):

road does not include a road-related area.

Note—

Road-related area is defined in rule 13.

School zone sign End school zone sign

Note 1 for diagrams—

There are a number of other permitted versions of each of these signs—see the diagrams in Schedule 3.

Note 2 for diagrams—

A school zone sign or end school zone sign may have a different number on the sign—see rule 316 (4).

24Speed-limit in a shared zone(1)

The speed-limit applying to a driver for any length of road in a shared zone is the number of kilometres per hour indicated by the number on the shared zone sign on a road into the zone.

Note—

A driver driving in a shared zone must give way to any pedestrian in the zone—see rule 83.

(2)

A shared zone is the network of roads in an area with:

• (a)

  a shared zone sign on each road into the area, indicating the same number, and

• (b)

  an end shared zone sign on each road out of the area.

(3)

In subrule (2) (a) and (b):

road does not include a road-related area.

Note—

Road-related area is defined in rule 13.

Shared zone sign End shared zone sign

Note 1 for diagrams—

There are a number of other permitted versions of each of these signs—see the diagrams in Schedule 3.

Note 2 for diagrams—

A shared zone sign may have a different number on the sign—see rule 316 (4).

25Speed-limit elsewhere(1)

If a speed-limit sign does not apply to a length of road and the length of road is not in a speed-limited area, school zone or shared zone, the speed-limit applying to a driver for the length of road is the default speed-limit.

Note—

Length of road is defined in the dictionary, school zone is defined in rule 23, shared zone is defined in rule 24, and speed-limited area is defined in rule 22.

(2)

The default speed-limit applying to a driver for a length of road in a built-up area is 60 kilometres per hour.

Note—

Built-up area is defined in the dictionary.

(3)

The default speed-limit applying to a driver for any other length of road is:

• (a)

  for a driver driving a bus with a GVM over 5 tonnes, or another vehicle with a GVM over 12 tonnes—100 kilometres per hour, or

• (b)

  for any other driver—100 kilometres per hour or as otherwise provided under another law of this jurisdiction.

Note 1—

Bus and GVM are defined in the dictionary, and vehicle is defined in rule 15.

Note 2—

Five tonnes is specified for the definition of heavy omnibus in the Australian Design Rules issued under the Motor Vehicle Standards Act 1989 (Cth).

Note 3—

If the vehicle is an oversize or overmass vehicle, the vehicle may be restricted to a lower speed-limit under another law of this jurisdiction.

Part 4Making turnsDivision 1Left turns at intersections26Division does not apply to certain turns(1)

This Division does not apply to:

• (a)

  a driver turning from a road into a road-related area or adjacent land, or from a road-related area into a road, or

• (b)

  a driver entering or leaving a roundabout.

(2)

In this rule:

road does not include a road-related area.

Note 1—

Adjacent land is defined in the dictionary, road-related area is defined in rule 13, and roundabout is defined in rule 109.

Note 2—

Division 5 of this Part deals with turning into or from a road-related area or adjacent land, and Part 9 deals with entering and leaving a roundabout.

Note 3—

For the meaning of left, see rule 351 (1).

27Starting a left turn from a road (except a multi-lane road)(1)

A driver turning left at an intersection from a road (except a multi-lane road) must approach and enter the intersection from as near as practicable to the far left side of the road.

Offence provision.

(2)

In this rule:

road does not include a road-related area.

Note 1—

Intersection and multi-lane road are defined in the dictionary.

Note 2—

Road-related area includes any shoulder of a road—see rule 13.

Example—Starting a left turn from a road (except a multi-lane road)28Starting a left turn from a multi-lane road(1)

A driver turning left at an intersection from a multi-lane road must approach and enter the intersection from within the left lane unless:

• (a)

  the driver is required or permitted to approach and enter the intersection from within another marked lane under rule 88 (1), 92 or 159, or

• (b)

  the driver is turning, at B lights or traffic arrows, in accordance with Division 2 of Part 17, or

• (c)

  subrule (2) applies to the driver.

Offence provision.

Note 1—

B lights, intersection, marked lane, multi-lane road, public bus and traffic arrows are defined in the dictionary, and left lane is defined in subrule (3).

Note 2—

Rule 88 (1) deals with left turn only signs, rule 92 deals with traffic lane arrows, and rule 159 deals with traffic signs requiring particular kinds of vehicles to drive in an indicated marked lane.

Note 3—

Division 2 of Part 17 provides for priority to be given to public buses at intersections with B lights or a white traffic arrow.

Example for subrule (1) (a)—Starting a left turn on a multi-lane road with traffic lane arrows as required or permitted under rule 92(2)

A driver may approach and enter the intersection from the marked lane next to the left lane as well as, or instead of, the left lane if:

• (a)

  the driver’s vehicle, together with any load or projection, is 7.5 metres long, or longer, and

• (b)

  the vehicle displays a do not overtake turning vehicle sign, and

• (c)

  any part of the vehicle is within 50 metres of the nearest point of the intersection, and

• (d)

  it is not practicable for the driver to turn left from within the left lane, and

• (e)

  the driver can safely occupy the next marked lane and can safely turn left at the intersection by occupying the next marked lane, or both lanes.

Note 1—

Driver’s vehicle is defined in the dictionary.

Note 2—

Vehicle includes a combination—see rule 15 (d).

Note 3—

Under the law of this jurisdiction, only certain long vehicles may display a do not overtake turning vehicle sign.

Example—Long vehicle turning left from the left lane and next marked lane(3)

In this rule:

left lane means:

• (a)

  the marked lane nearest to the far left side of the road, or

• (b)

  if there is an obstruction (for example, a parked car or roadworks) in that marked lane—the marked lane nearest to that marked lane that is not obstructed.

marked lane, for a driver, does not include a special purpose lane in which the driver is not permitted to drive.

Note 1—

Obstruction and special purpose lane are defined in the dictionary.

Note 2—

Rule 95 deals with driving in an emergency stopping lane and Part 11, Division 6 deals with driving in other special purpose lanes.

Do not overtake turning vehicle signs

Note for diagrams—

These signs are displayed on certain long vehicles.

29Making a left turn as indicated by a road marking

If a driver is turning left at an intersection and there is a road marking indicating how the turn is required to be made, the driver must make the turn as indicated by the road marking.

Offence provision.

Note—

Intersection and road marking are defined in the dictionary.

Example—Making a left turn as indicated by road markingsDivision 2Right turns (except hook turns) at intersections30Division does not apply to certain turns(1)

This Division does not apply to:

• (a)

  a driver turning right at an intersection where there is a hook turn only sign, or

• (b)

  the rider of a bicycle making a hook turn under Division 3, or

• (c)

  a driver turning from a road into a road-related area or adjacent land, or from a road-related area into a road, or

• (d)

  a driver making a U-turn, or

• (e)

  a driver entering or leaving a roundabout.

(2)

In subrule (1) (c):

road does not include a road-related area.

Note 1—

Adjacent land, bicycle, intersection and U-turn are defined in the dictionary, road-related area is defined in rule 13, and roundabout is defined in rule 109.

Note 2—

Division 3 of this Part deals with hook turns, Division 4 deals with U-turns, Division 5 deals with turns into or from a road-related area or adjacent land, and Part 9 deals with entering and leaving a roundabout.

Note 3—

For the meaning of right, see rule 351 (2).

31Starting a right turn from a road (except a multi-lane road)(1)

A driver turning right at an intersection from a road (except a multi-lane road) must approach and enter the intersection in accordance with this rule.

Offence provision.

Note—

Intersection and multi-lane road are defined in the dictionary.

(2)

If the road has a dividing line or median strip, the driver must approach and enter the intersection from the left of, parallel to, and as near as practicable to, the dividing line or median strip.

Note—

Dividing line and median strip are defined in the dictionary.

(3)

If the road does not have a dividing line or median strip and is not a one-way road, the driver must approach and enter the intersection from the left of, parallel to, and as near as practicable to, the centre of the road.

Note—

Centre of the road and one-way road are defined in the dictionary.

(4)

If the road is a one-way road, the driver must approach and enter the intersection from as near as practicable to the far right side of the road.

(5)

In this rule:

road does not include a road-related area.

Note—

Road-related area includes any shoulder of a road—see rule 13.

Examples—Example 1Starting a right turn from a road with a dividing lineExample 2Starting a right turn from a one-way road32Starting a right turn from a multi-lane road(1)

A driver turning right at an intersection from a multi-lane road must approach and enter the intersection from within the right lane unless:

• (a)

  the driver is required or permitted to approach and enter the intersection from within another marked lane in accordance with rule 89 (1), 92 or 159, or

• (b)

  the driver is turning, at B lights or traffic arrows, in accordance with Division 2 of Part 17, or

• (c)

  subrule (2) applies to the driver.

Offence provision.

Note 1—

B lights, intersection, marked lane, multi-lane road, public bus and traffic arrows are defined in the dictionary, and right lane is defined in subrule (3).

Note 2—

Rule 89 (1) deals with right turn only signs, rule 92 deals with traffic lane arrows, and rule 159 deals with traffic signs requiring particular kinds of vehicles to drive in an indicated marked lane.

Note 3—

Division 2 of Part 17 provides for priority to be given to public buses at intersections with B lights or a white traffic arrow.

Example for subrule (1) (a)—Starting a right turn on a multi-lane road with traffic lane arrows as required or permitted under rule 92(2)

A driver may approach and enter the intersection from the marked lane next to the right lane as well as, or instead of, the right lane if:

• (a)

  the driver’s vehicle, together with any load or projection, is 7.5 metres long, or longer, and

• (b)

  the vehicle displays a do not overtake turning vehicle sign, and

• (c)

  any part of the vehicle is within 50 metres of the nearest point of the intersection, and

• (d)

  it is not practicable for the driver to turn right from within the right lane, and

• (e)

  the driver can safely occupy the next marked lane and can safely turn right at the intersection by occupying the next marked lane, or both lanes.

Note 1—

Driver’s vehicle is defined in the dictionary.

Note 2—

Vehicle includes a combination—see rule 15 (d).

Note 3—

Under the law of this jurisdiction, only certain long vehicles may display a do not overtake turning vehicle sign.

(3)

In this rule:

marked lane, for a driver, does not include a special purpose lane in which the driver is not permitted to drive.

right lane means:

• (a)

  the marked lane nearest to the dividing line or median strip on the road, or

• (b)

  if there is an obstruction (for example, a parked car or roadworks) in that marked lane—the marked lane nearest to that marked lane that is not obstructed.

Note 1—

Dividing line, median strip, obstruction and special purpose lane are defined in the dictionary.

Note 2—

Rule 95 deals with driving in an emergency stopping lane and Part 11, Division 6 deals with driving in other special purpose lanes.

Do not overtake turning vehicle signs

Note for diagrams—

These signs are displayed on certain long vehicles.

33Making a right turn(1)

A driver turning right at an intersection (except a T-intersection) must make the turn in accordance with this rule.

Offence provision.

Note—

Intersection and T-intersection are defined in the dictionary.

(2)

If there is a road marking indicating how the turn is required to be made, the driver must make the turn as indicated by the road marking.

Note—

Road marking is defined in the dictionary.

(3)

If there is no road marking indicating how the turn is required to be made, the driver must make the turn so the driver passes as near as practicable to the right of the centre of the intersection.

Examples—Example 1Making a right turn as indicated by road markingsExample 2Making a right turn from a road with no road marking indicating how to make the turnDivision 3Hook turns at intersections34Making a hook turn at a hook turn only sign(1)

A driver turning right at an intersection with traffic lights and a hook turn only sign must turn right by making a hook turn in accordance with this rule.

Offence provision.

Note—

Intersection and traffic lights are defined in the dictionary.

(2)

To make a hook turn, the driver must take, in sequence, each of the following steps:

• 1

  Approach and enter the intersection from as near as practicable to the far left side of the road that the driver is leaving.

• 2

  Move forward, keeping as near as practicable to the left of the intersection and clear of any marked foot crossing, until the driver is as near as practicable to the far side of the road that the driver is entering.

• 3

  Remain at the position reached under step 2 until the traffic lights on the road that the driver is entering change to green.

• 4

  Turn right into that road.

Note—

Marked foot crossing is defined in the dictionary.

(3)

In this rule:

road does not include a road-related area.

Note—

Road-related area is defined in rule 13.

Example.
Hook turn only sign	Making a hook turn at a hook turn only sign

35Optional hook turn by a bicycle rider(1)

The rider of a bicycle turning right at an intersection without a hook turn only sign, or a no hook turn by bicycles sign, may turn right at the intersection by making a right turn under Division 2 or a hook turn under this rule.

Note—

Bicycle and intersection are defined in the dictionary.

(2)

The rider must make a hook turn under this rule in accordance with subrule (3).

Offence provision.

(3)

To make a hook turn under this rule, the rider must take, in sequence, each of the following steps:

• 1

  Approach and enter the intersection from as near as practicable to the far left side of the road that the rider is leaving.

• 2

  Move forward:

  • (a)

    keeping as near as practicable to the far left side of the intersection, and

  • (b)

    keeping clear of any marked foot crossing, and

  • (c)

    keeping clear, as far as practicable, of any driver turning left from the left of the intersection,

  until the rider is as near as practicable to the far side of the road that the rider is entering.

• 3

  If there are traffic lights at the intersection, remain at the position reached under step 2 until the traffic lights on the road that the rider is entering change to green.

• 4

  If there are no traffic lights at the intersection, remain at the position reached under step 2 until the rider has given way to approaching drivers on the road that the rider is leaving.

• 5

  Turn right into the road that the rider is entering.

Note—

Approaching and marked foot crossing is defined in the dictionary.

Example—Bicycle rider making a hook turn at an intersection without traffic lights36Bicycle rider making a hook turn contrary to no hook turn by bicycles sign

The rider of a bicycle must not make a hook turn at an intersection that has a no hook turn by bicycles sign.

Offence provision.

Note—

Bicycle and intersection are defined in the dictionary.

No hook turn by bicycles signDivision 4U-turnsNote—

U-turn is defined in the dictionary.

37Beginning a U-turn

A driver must not begin a U-turn unless:

• (a)

  the driver has a clear view of any approaching traffic, and

• (b)

  the driver can safely make the U-turn without unreasonably obstructing the free movement of traffic.

Offence provision.

Note 1—

Approaching traffic means traffic approaching from any direction—see the definition in the dictionary.

Note 2—

Traffic is defined in the dictionary.

38Giving way when making a U-turn

A driver making a U-turn must give way to all vehicles and pedestrians.

Offence provision.

Note—

For this rule, give way means the driver must slow down and, if necessary stop, to avoid a collision—see the definition in the dictionary.

39Making a U-turn contrary to a no U-turn sign(1)

A driver must not make a U-turn at a break in a dividing strip on a road if there is a no U-turn sign at the break in the dividing strip.

Offence provision.

Note 1—

Dividing strip is defined in the dictionary.

Note 2—

Rule 322 (5) and (6) deal with the meaning of a traffic sign at a break in a dividing strip.

(2)

A driver must not make a U-turn on a length of road to which a no U-turn sign applies.

Offence provision.

Note—

Length of road is defined in the dictionary.

(3)

A no U-turn sign on a road (except a no U-turn sign at an intersection or at a break in a dividing strip) applies to the length of road beginning at the sign and ending at the nearer of the following:

• (a)

  the next intersection on the road,

• (b)

  if the road ends at a T-intersection or dead end—the end of the road.

Note 1—

Intersection and T-intersection are defined in the dictionary.

Note 2—

Rule 322 (1) and (2) deal with the meaning of a traffic sign on a road.

No U-turn signs
No U-turn sign(Standard sign)	No U-turn sign(Variable illuminated message sign)

Note for diagrams—

There is another permitted version of each of these no U-turn signs—see the diagrams in Schedule 3.

40Making a U-turn at an intersection with traffic lights

A driver must not make a U-turn at an intersection with traffic lights unless there is a U-turn permitted sign at the intersection.

Offence provision.

Note—

Intersection and traffic lights are defined in the dictionary.

U-turn permitted sign41Making a U-turn at an intersection without traffic lights

A driver must not make a U-turn at an intersection without traffic lights if there is a no U-turn sign at the intersection.

Offence provision.

Note 1—

Intersection and traffic lights are defined in the dictionary.

Note 2—

U-turns are permitted at intersections without traffic lights unless there is a no U-turn sign, even though traffic lane arrows indicate that the driver must or may turn right—see rule 92.

42Starting a U-turn at an intersection

A driver making a U-turn at an intersection must start the U-turn:

• (a)

  if the road where the driver is turning has a dividing line or median strip—from the marked lane nearest, or as near as practicable, to the dividing line or median strip, or

• (b)

  in any other case—from the left of the centre of the road.

Offence provision.

Note—

Centre of the road, dividing line, intersection, marked lane and median strip are defined in the dictionary.

Example—Starting a U-turn on a road with a median stripDivision 5Turns into or from road-related areas or adjacent land43Starting and making turns(1)

A driver turning left from a road into a road-related area or adjacent land, or from a road-related area into a road, must comply with Division 1 as if the driver were turning left at an intersection.

Offence provision.

Note 1—

Adjacent land is defined in the dictionary, and road-related area is defined in rule 13. Adjacent land or a road-related area can include a driveway, service station or shopping centre—see the definitions. Some shopping centres may include roads—see the definition of road in rule 12.

Note 2—

For the meaning of left and right, see rule 351 (1) and (2).

(2)

A driver turning right from a road into a road-related area or adjacent land, or from a road-related area into a road, must comply with Division 2 as if the driver were turning right at an intersection.

Offence provision.

(3)

In this rule:

road does not include a road-related area.

Note 1—

A road-related area includes the shoulder of a road—see rule 13.

Note 2—

Rule 74 deals with the give way rules applying to a driver entering a road from a road-related area or adjacent land, and rule 75 deals with the give way rules applying to a driver entering a road-related area or adjacent land from a road.

Note 3—

Rule 212 deals with a driver entering and leaving a median strip parking area.

Part 5Change of direction and stop signalsDivision 1Change of direction signals44Division does not apply to entering or leaving a roundabout

This Division does not apply to a driver entering, in or leaving a roundabout.

Note—

Part 9 deals with giving change of direction signals when entering or leaving a roundabout.

45What is changing direction(1)

A driver changes direction if the driver changes direction to the left or the driver changes direction to the right.

(2)

A driver changes direction to the left by doing any of the following:

• (a)

  turning left,

• (b)

  changing marked lanes to the left,

• (c)

  diverging to the left,

• (d)

  entering a marked lane, or a line of traffic, to the left,

• (e)

  moving to the left from a stationary position,

• (f)

  turning left into a marked lane, or a line of traffic, from a median strip parking area,

• (g)

  at a T-intersection where the continuing road curves to the right—leaving the continuing road to proceed straight ahead onto the terminating road.

Note 1—

Marked lane and median strip parking area are defined in the dictionary.

Note 2—

For the meaning of left, see rule 351 (1).

(3)

A driver changes direction to the right by doing any of the following:

• (a)

  turning right,

• (b)

  changing marked lanes to the right,

• (c)

  diverging to the right,

• (d)

  entering a marked lane, or a line of traffic, to the right,

• (e)

  moving to the right from a stationary position,

• (f)

  turning right into a marked lane, or a line of traffic, from a median strip parking area,

• (g)

  making a U-turn,

• (h)

  at a T-intersection where the continuing road curves to the left—leaving the continuing road to proceed straight ahead onto the terminating road.

Note 1—

U-turn is defined in the dictionary.

Note 2—

For the meaning of right, see rule 351 (2).

Examples for subrules (2) (g) and (3) (h)—

Example 1Driver indicating change of direction at a T-intersection where the continuing road curves to the right and the driver is proceeding straight ahead onto the terminating road Example 2Driver indicating change of direction at a T-intersection where the continuing road curves to the left and the driver is proceeding straight ahead onto the terminating road

46Giving a left change of direction signal(1)

Before a driver changes direction to the left, the driver must give a left change of direction signal in accordance with rule 47 for long enough to comply with subrule (2) and, if subrule (3) applies to the driver, that subrule.

Offence provision.

Note—

Changes direction to the left is defined in rule 45 (2).

(2)

The driver must give the change of direction signal for long enough to give sufficient warning to other drivers and pedestrians.

(3)

If the driver is about to change direction by moving from a stationary position at the side of the road or in a median strip parking area, the driver must give the change of direction signal for at least 5 seconds before the driver changes direction.

Note—

Median strip parking area is defined in the dictionary.

(4)

The driver must stop giving the change of direction signal as soon as the driver completes the change of direction.

Offence provision.

(5)

This rule does not apply to a driver if the driver’s vehicle is not fitted with direction indicator lights.

Note—

Driver’s vehicle is defined in the dictionary.

47How to give a left change of direction signal

The driver of a vehicle must give a left change of direction signal by operating the vehicle’s left direction indicator lights.

48Giving a right change of direction signal(1)

Before a driver changes direction to the right, the driver must give a right change of direction signal in accordance with rule 49 for long enough to comply with subrule (2) and, if subrule (3) applies to the driver, that subrule.

Offence provision.

Note—

Changes direction to the right is defined in rule 45 (3).

(2)

The driver must give the change of direction signal for long enough to give sufficient warning to other drivers and pedestrians.

(3)

If the driver is about to change direction by moving from a stationary position at the side of the road or in a median strip parking area, the driver must give the change of direction signal for at least 5 seconds before the driver changes direction.

Note—

Median strip parking area is defined in the dictionary.

(4)

The driver must stop giving the change of direction signal as soon as the driver completes the change of direction.

Offence provision.

(5)

This rule does not apply to:

• (a)

  the driver of a tram that is not fitted with direction indicator lights, or

• (b)

  the rider of a bicycle making a hook turn.

Note 1—

Bicycle and tram are defined in the dictionary.

Note 2—

Rules 34 and 35 deal with bicycles making hook turns.

49How to give a right change of direction signal(1)

The driver of a vehicle must give a right change of direction signal by operating the vehicle’s right direction indicator lights.

(2)

However, if the vehicle’s direction indicator lights are not in working order or are not clearly visible, or the vehicle is not fitted with direction indicator lights, the driver must give the change of direction signal by giving a hand signal in accordance with rule 50, or using a mechanical signalling device fitted to the vehicle.

Note—

Mechanical signalling device is defined in the dictionary.

50How to give a right change of direction signal by giving a hand signal

To give a hand signal for changing direction to the right, the driver must extend the right arm and hand horizontally and at right angles from the right side of the vehicle, with the hand open and the palm facing the direction of travel.

Example—Giving a hand signal for changing direction to the right51When use of direction indicator lights permitted

The driver of a vehicle must not operate a direction indicator light except:

• (a)

  to give a change of direction signal when the driver is required to give the signal under the Australian Road Rules, or

• (b)

  as part of the vehicle’s hazard warning lights.

Offence provision.

Note—

Rule 221 deals with the use of hazard warning lights.

Division 2Stop signals52Division does not apply to bicycle riders or certain tram drivers

This Division does not apply to the rider of a bicycle, or the driver of a tram that is not fitted with brake lights.

Note—

Bicycle and tram are defined in the dictionary.

53Giving a stop signal(1)

A driver must give a stop signal in accordance with rule 54 before stopping or when suddenly slowing.

Offence provision.

(2)

If the driver is stopping, the driver must give the stop signal for long enough to give sufficient warning to other road users.

Offence provision.

(3)

If the driver is slowing suddenly, the driver must give the stop signal while slowing.

Offence provision.

54How to give a stop signal(1)

The driver of a vehicle must give a stop signal by means of the vehicle’s brake lights.

(2)

However, if the vehicle’s brake lights are not in working order or are not clearly visible, or the vehicle is not fitted with brake lights, the driver must give the stop signal by giving a hand signal in accordance with rule 55, or using a mechanical signalling device fitted to the vehicle.

Note—

Mechanical signalling device is defined in the dictionary.

55How to give a stop signal by giving a hand signal(1)

To give a hand signal for stopping or suddenly slowing, the driver must extend the right arm and hand at right angles from the right side of the vehicle, with the upper arm horizontal and the forearm and hand pointing upwards, and with the hand open and the palm facing the direction of travel.

(2)

However, the rider of a motor bike may give the hand signal by extending the left arm and hand at right angles from the left side of the motor bike, with the upper arm horizontal and the forearm and hand pointing upwards, and with the hand open and the palm facing the direction of travel.

Note—

Motor bike is defined in the dictionary.

Example—Giving a hand signal for stopping or suddenly slowingPart 6Traffic lights and twin red lightsDivision 1Obeying traffic lightsNote 1—

Traffic arrows and traffic lights are defined in the dictionary. Traffic arrows are a traffic control device installed with traffic lights that are designed to show a traffic arrow, or 2 or more traffic arrows at different times—see the definition in the dictionary.

Note 2—

A reference in a rule of this Part to a green, yellow or red traffic light or traffic arrow is a reference to a steady green, yellow or red traffic light or traffic arrow, unless otherwise stated in the rule—see rule 323.

Note 3—

The rules dealing with T lights and B lights, which apply to drivers of trams and public buses, are in Part 17.

56Stopping for a red traffic light or arrow(1)

A driver approaching or at traffic lights showing a red traffic light must stop:

• (a)

  if there is a stop line at or near the traffic lights—as near as practicable to, but before reaching, the stop line, or

• (b)

  if there is a stop here on red signal sign at or near the traffic lights, but no stop line—as near as practicable to, but before reaching, the sign, or

• (c)

  if there is no stop line or stop here on red signal sign at or near the traffic lights—as near as practicable to, but before reaching, the nearest or only traffic lights.

Offence provision.

Note—

Red traffic light and stop line are defined in the dictionary.

Example for subrule (1) (b)—Stopping at a stop here on red signal sign on a road the driver is entering

In this example, the driver may go straight ahead, or turn right or left, if there is a green traffic light showing at 1. However, the driver must not go beyond the stop line or stop here on red signal sign at 2, if there is a red traffic light showing on the road the driver is entering (see 3).

(2)

A driver approaching or at traffic arrows showing a red traffic arrow who is turning in the direction indicated by the arrow must stop:

• (a)

  if there is a stop line at or near the traffic arrows—as near as practicable to, but before reaching, the stop line, or

• (b)

  if there is a stop here on red arrow sign at or near the traffic arrows, but no stop line—as near as practicable to, but before reaching, the sign, or

• (c)

  if there is no stop line or stop here on red arrow sign at or near the traffic arrows—as near as practicable to, but before reaching, the nearest or only traffic arrows.

Offence provision.

Note 1—

Red traffic arrow is defined in the dictionary.

Note 2—

This rule only applies to a driver turning left using a slip lane if the red traffic light or red traffic arrow applies to the slip lane—see Part 20, Divisions 2 and 3, especially rules 330 and 345.

Note 3—

Rule 58 deals with when a driver does not have to stop for a red traffic light.

Note 4—

The driver of a tram or a public bus does not have to stop at traffic lights showing a red traffic light if a white T light (for trams) or a white B light (for public buses) is also showing, or a white traffic arrow is showing and the driver is turning in the direction indicated by the arrow—see rules 278 and 285.

Stop here on red signal sign Stop here on red arrow sign

Note for diagrams—

There is another permitted version of the stop here on red signal sign—see the diagram in Schedule 3.

57Stopping for a yellow traffic light or arrow(1)

This rule applies to:

• (a)

  a driver approaching or at traffic lights showing a yellow traffic light, or

• (b)

  a driver approaching or at traffic arrows showing a yellow traffic arrow who is turning in the direction indicated by the arrow.

Note—

Yellow traffic arrow and yellow traffic light are defined in the dictionary.

(2)

The driver must stop:

• (a)

  if there is a stop line at or near the traffic lights or arrows and the driver can stop safely before reaching the stop line—as near as practicable to, but before reaching, the stop line, or

• (b)

  if there is no stop line at or near the traffic lights or arrows and the driver can stop safely before reaching the traffic lights or arrows—as near as practicable to, but before reaching, the nearest or only traffic lights or arrows, or

• (c)

  if the traffic lights or arrows are at an intersection and the driver cannot stop safely in accordance with paragraph (a) or (b), but can stop safely before entering the intersection—before entering the intersection.

Offence provision.

Note—

Enter, intersection and stop line are defined in the dictionary.

(3)

If the traffic lights or arrows are at an intersection and the driver is not able to stop safely under subrule (2) and enters the intersection, the driver must leave the intersection as soon as the driver can do so safely.

Offence provision.

Note 1—

Intersection does not include a road-related area—see the definition in the dictionary.

Note 2—

This rule only applies to a driver turning left using a slip lane if the yellow traffic light or yellow traffic arrow applies to the slip lane—see Part 20, Divisions 2 and 3, especially rules 330 and 345.

Note 3—

Rule 58 deals with when a driver does not have to stop at a yellow traffic light.

58Exceptions to stopping for a red or yellow traffic light(1)

A driver approaching or at traffic lights showing a red or yellow traffic light does not have to stop if a green traffic arrow is also showing and the driver is turning in the direction indicated by the arrow.

Note—

Green traffic arrow, red traffic light and yellow traffic light are defined in the dictionary.

(2)

A driver turning at an intersection with traffic lights who approaches or is at a red traffic light on the road that the driver is entering does not have to stop for that traffic light if there is no stop line or stop here on red signal sign at or near the traffic light.

Note—

Intersection and stop line are defined in the dictionary.

59Proceeding through a red traffic light(1)

If traffic lights at an intersection are showing a red traffic light, a driver must not enter the intersection.

Offence provision.

Note 1—

Enter, intersection and red traffic light are defined in the dictionary.

Note 2—

Rules 56 and 57 deal with stopping for a red or yellow traffic light. Rule 60 deals with proceeding through a red traffic arrow.

(2)

However, if the traffic lights are at an intersection with a left turn on red after stopping sign and the driver is turning left at the intersection, the driver may turn left after stopping.

Note—

Rule 62 deals with the give way rules applying to a driver turning left at an intersection after stopping at a left turn on red after stopping sign.

(3)

Also, subrule (1) does not apply to a driver if subrule 58 (1) applies to the driver.

Note—

Rule 58 deals with when a driver does not have to stop for a red traffic light.

Left turn on red after stopping sign60Proceeding through a red traffic arrow

If traffic arrows at an intersection are showing a red traffic arrow, and a driver is turning in the direction indicated by the arrow, the driver must not enter the intersection.

Offence provision.

Note 1—

Enter, intersection and red traffic arrow are defined in the dictionary.

Note 2—

Rules 56 and 57 deal with stopping for a red or yellow traffic arrow.

61Proceeding when traffic lights or arrows at an intersection change to yellow or red(1)

This rule applies to:

• (a)

  a driver at an intersection with traffic lights showing a green traffic light who has stopped after the stop line, stop here on red signal sign, or nearest or only traffic lights, at the intersection and is not making a hook turn at the intersection, or

• (b)

  a driver at an intersection with traffic arrows showing a green traffic arrow who is turning in the direction indicated by the arrow and has stopped after the stop line, stop here on red arrow sign, or nearest or only traffic arrows, at the intersection.

Example—

A driver may stop after the stop line at an intersection with traffic lights showing a green traffic light, and not proceed through the intersection, because traffic is congested.

Note 1—

Green traffic arrow, green traffic light, intersection and stop line are defined in the dictionary.

Note 2—

Hook turns are dealt with in rules 34 and 35.

(2)

If the traffic lights or arrows change to yellow or red while the driver is stopped and the driver has not entered the intersection, the driver must not enter the intersection.

Offence provision.

Note—

Enter is defined in the dictionary.

(3)

However, if the traffic lights are at an intersection with a left turn on red after stopping sign and the driver is turning left at the intersection, the driver may turn left after stopping.

Note—

Rule 62 deals with the give way rules applying to a driver turning left at an intersection after stopping at a left turn on red after stopping sign.

(4)

Also, subrule (2) does not apply to a driver if subrule 58 (1) applies to the driver.

Note—

Rule 58 deals with when a driver does not have to stop for a red traffic light.

(5)

If the traffic lights or arrows change to yellow or red while the driver is stopped and the driver has entered the intersection, the driver must leave the intersection as soon as the driver can do so safely.

Offence provision.

Note—

Intersection does not include a road-related area—see the definition in the dictionary.

Division 2Giving way at traffic lightsNote—

Traffic lights are defined in the dictionary.

62Giving way when turning at an intersection with traffic lights

A driver turning at an intersection with traffic lights must give way to:

• (a)

  any pedestrian at or near the intersection who is on the road the driver is entering, and

• (b)

  if the driver is turning left at a left turn on red after stopping sign at the intersection:

  • (i)

    any vehicle approaching from the right, turning right at the intersection into the road the driver is entering or making a U-turn, and

  • (ii)

    any pedestrian at or near the intersection who is on the road the driver is leaving, and

• (c)

  if the driver is turning right—any oncoming vehicle that is going straight ahead or turning left at the intersection (except a vehicle turning left using a slip lane).

Offence provision.

Note 1—

Intersection, oncoming vehicle, slip lane, straight ahead and U-turn are defined in the dictionary.

Note 2—

For this rule, give way means the driver must remain stationary until it is safe to proceed—see the definition in the dictionary.

Note 3—

Rule 322 (3) and (4) deal with the meaning of a traffic sign at an intersection.

Note 4—

A driver turning left at a left turn on red after stopping sign, at an intersection with traffic lights showing a red traffic light, must stop in accordance with rule 56 (1) before making the turn.

Examples—

Example 1Giving way to a pedestrian on the road the driver is entering	Example 2Driver turning right giving way to an oncoming vehicle going straight ahead
Example 3Driver turning right does not have to give way to an oncoming vehicle that is turning left into the road the driver is entering using a slip lane

In example 1, the vehicle must give way to the pedestrian.

In examples 2 and 3, vehicle B must give way to vehicle A.

63Giving way at an intersection with traffic lights not operating or only partly operating(1)

This rule applies to a driver at an intersection if traffic lights at the intersection are not operating, or the traffic lights are showing only a flashing yellow traffic light.

Note—

Intersection and yellow traffic light are defined in the dictionary.

(2)

If there is a traffic light-stop sign at the intersection, the driver must comply with rule 67 as if the sign were a stop sign at an intersection without traffic lights.

Offence provision.

Note 1—

Rule 322 (3) and (4) deal with the meaning of a traffic sign at an intersection.

Note 2—

Rule 67 deals with stopping and giving way at a stop sign or stop line at an intersection without traffic lights.

Note 3—

There is no requirement under Division 1 of this Part for a driver to stop for a flashing yellow traffic light or traffic lights that are not operating.

(3)

If there is no traffic light-stop sign at the intersection, the driver must give way to vehicles and pedestrians at or near the intersection in accordance with rule 72 or 73 as if the intersection were an intersection without traffic lights, or a stop sign, stop line, give way sign or give way line.

Offence provision.

Note 1—

Give way line and stop line are defined in the dictionary.

Note 2—

Rules 72 and 73 deal with giving way at an intersection (except a roundabout) without traffic lights, or a stop sign, stop line, give way sign or give way line applying to the driver.

Traffic light-stop sign64Giving way at a flashing yellow traffic arrow at an intersection

A driver turning in the direction indicated by a flashing yellow traffic arrow at an intersection with traffic lights must give way to:

• (a)

  any vehicle travelling on the road the driver is entering, and

• (b)

  any pedestrian at or near the intersection who is on the road the driver is entering, and

• (c)

  if the driver is turning right—any oncoming vehicle that is going straight ahead or turning left at the intersection (except a vehicle turning left using a slip lane).

Offence provision.

Note 1—

Intersection, oncoming vehicle, slip lane, straight ahead and yellow traffic arrow are defined in the dictionary.

Note 2—

For this rule, give way means the driver must slow down and, if necessary, stop to avoid a collision—see the definition in the dictionary.

Note 3—

There is no requirement under Division 1 of this Part for a driver to stop for a flashing yellow traffic arrow.

65Giving way at a marked foot crossing (except at an intersection) with a flashing yellow traffic light(1)

This rule applies to a driver approaching or at a marked foot crossing (except at or near an intersection) with a flashing yellow traffic light at the crossing.

Note—

Intersection, marked foot crossing and yellow traffic light are defined in the dictionary.

(2)

The driver must:

• (a)

  give way to any pedestrian on the crossing, and

• (b)

  not obstruct any pedestrian on the crossing, and

• (c)

  not overtake or pass a vehicle that is travelling in the same direction as the driver and is stopping, or has stopped, to give way at the crossing.

Offence provision.

Note 1—

Overtake is defined in the dictionary.

Note 2—

For subrule (2), give way means the driver must slow down and, if necessary, stop to avoid a collision—see the definition in the dictionary.

(3)

If there is no pedestrian on the crossing, and no other vehicle travelling in the same direction as the driver that is stopping, or has stopped, to give way at the crossing, the driver may proceed through the crossing.

Division 3Twin red lights (except at level crossings)66Stopping for twin red lights (except at level crossings)(1)

A driver approaching or at twin red lights on a road (except at a level crossing) must stop in accordance with subrules (2) and (3).

Offence provision.

Note 1—

Level crossing is defined in rule 120, and twin red lights is defined in the dictionary.

Note 2—

Rule 322 (1) and (2) deal with the meaning of a traffic control device on a road.

Note 3—

Twin red lights are generally erected at bridges, ambulance stations, fire stations or level crossings. The rules about stopping at level crossings are in Part 10.

(2)

If there is a stop line at or near the lights and the driver can stop safely before reaching the stop line, the driver must stop as near as practicable to, but before reaching, the stop line.

Note—

Stop line is defined in the dictionary.

(3)

If there is no stop line at or near the lights and the driver can stop safely before reaching the lights, the driver must stop as near as practicable to, but before reaching, the lights.

(4)

If the driver stops for the lights, the driver must not proceed until the lights are not showing.

Offence provision.

Part 7Giving wayNote 1—

The rules in this Part deal with giving way in most situations. In addition, other rules requiring a driver to give way include:

• •

  making a U-turn—rule 38

• •

  turning at traffic lights at an intersection—rule 62

• •

  at an intersection with traffic lights that are not operating or only partly operating—rule 63

• •

  turning at a flashing yellow traffic arrow at an intersection—rule 64

• •

  at a marked foot crossing with a flashing yellow traffic light—rule 65

• •

  entering and driving in a roundabout—rule 114

• •

  by the rider of a bicycle or animal to a vehicle leaving a roundabout—rule 119

• •

  at a stop sign at a level crossing—rule 121

• •

  at a give way sign or give way line at a level crossing—rule 122

• •

  moving from one marked lane to another marked lane, or from one line of traffic to another line of traffic—rule 148

• •

  when lines of traffic merge into a single line of traffic—rule 149

• •

  for pedestrians crossing the road near a stopped tram—rule 164.

Note 2—

For the meaning of left and right, see rule 351 (1) and (2).

Division 1Giving way at a stop sign, stop line, give way sign or give way line applying to the driverNote—

For a driver, a reference in a rule in this Division to a traffic sign or road marking is a reference to a traffic sign or road marking applying to the driver—see rules 338 to 341.

67Stopping and giving way at a stop sign or stop line at an intersection without traffic lights(1)

A driver at an intersection with a stop sign or stop line, but without traffic lights, must stop and give way in accordance with this rule.

Offence provision.

Note 1—

Intersection and stop line are defined in the dictionary. This rule applies also to T-intersections—see the definition of intersection.

Note 2—

For this rule, give way means the driver must remain stationary until it is safe for the driver to proceed—see the definition in the dictionary.

Note 3—

Part 6 deals with stopping and giving way at an intersection with traffic lights.

Note 4—

This rule only applies to a driver turning left using a slip lane if the stop sign or stop line applies to the slip lane—see Part 20, Divisions 2 and 3, especially rules 330 and 345.

(2)

The driver must stop at the stop line or, if there is no stop line, the driver must stop as near as practicable to, but before entering, the intersection.

Note—

Enter is defined in the dictionary.

(3)

The driver must give way to a vehicle in, entering or approaching the intersection except:

• (a)

  an oncoming vehicle turning right at the intersection if a stop sign, stop line, give way sign or give way line applies to the driver of the oncoming vehicle, or

• (b)

  a vehicle turning left at the intersection using a slip lane, or

• (c)

  a vehicle making a U-turn.

Note—

Give way line, oncoming vehicle, slip lane and U-turn are defined in the dictionary.

(4)

If the driver is turning left or right or making a U-turn, the driver must also give way to any pedestrian at or near the intersection on the road, or part of the road, the driver is entering.

(5)

For this rule, an oncoming vehicle travelling through a T-intersection on the continuing road is taken not to be turning.

Stop signExamples—

Example 1Stop line Example 2Stopping and giving way at a stop sign to vehicles on the left and right

In example 2, vehicle B must stop and give way to each vehicle A.

Example 3Stopping and giving way at a stop sign to an oncoming vehicle at a stop sign

Example 4Stopping and giving way at a stop sign to an oncoming vehicle that is not at a stop sign or give way sign

In examples 3 and 4, vehicle B must stop and give way to vehicle A.

68Stopping and giving way at a stop sign or stop line at other places(1)

A driver approaching or at a place (except an intersection, children’s crossing, level crossing, or a place with twin red lights) with a stop sign or stop line must stop and give way in accordance with this rule.

Offence provision.

Examples—

• 1

  A stop sign at a break in a dividing strip dividing the part of the road used by the main body of moving vehicles from a service road.

• 2

  A stop sign on an exit from a carpark where the exit joins the road.

Note 1—

Children’s crossing is defined in rule 80, intersection, stop line and twin red lights are defined in the dictionary, and level crossing is defined in rule 120.

Note 2—

For this rule, give way means the driver must remain stationary until it is safe for the driver to proceed—see the definition in the dictionary.

Note 3—

For the stopping and giving way rules applying to a driver at an intersection or level crossing with a stop sign or stop line, see rule 67 (intersections) and rule 121 (level crossings). Rule 80 deals with stopping at a stop line at a children’s crossing.

(2)

The driver must stop at the stop line or, if there is no stop line, the driver must stop as near as practicable to, but before, the stop sign.

(3)

The driver must give way to any vehicle or pedestrian at or near the stop sign.

Examples—

Example 1Stopping and giving way at a stop sign at a break in a dividing strip Example 2Stopping and giving way at a stop sign where a carpark exit joins a road

In each example, vehicle B must stop and give way to vehicle A.

69Giving way at a give way sign or give way line at an intersection(1)

A driver at an intersection with a give way sign or give way line must give way in accordance with this rule.

Offence provision.

Note 1—

Give way line and intersection are defined in the dictionary. This rule applies also to T-intersections—see the definition of intersection.

Note 2—

For this rule, give way means the driver must slow down and, if necessary, stop to avoid a collision—see the definition in the dictionary.

(2)

The driver must give way to a vehicle in, entering or approaching the intersection except:

• (a)

  an oncoming vehicle turning right at the intersection if a stop sign, stop line, give way sign or give way line applies to the driver of the oncoming vehicle, or

• (b)

  a vehicle turning left at the intersection using a slip lane, or

• (c)

  a vehicle making a U-turn.

Note—

Enter, oncoming vehicle, slip lane, stop line and U-turn are defined in the dictionary.

(3)

If the driver is turning left or right or making a U-turn, the driver must also give way to any pedestrian at or near the intersection on the road, or part of the road, the driver is entering.

(4)

For this rule, an oncoming vehicle travelling through a T-intersection on the continuing road is taken not to be turning.

Give way signExamples—

Example 1Give way line Example 2Giving way at a give way sign to vehicles on the left and right

In example 2, vehicle B must give way to each vehicle A.

Example 3Giving way at a give way sign to an oncoming vehicle at a give way sign Example 4Giving way at a give way sign to an oncoming vehicle that is not at a stop sign or give way sign

In examples 3 and 4, vehicle B must give way to vehicle A.

Example 5Driver turning right at a give way line does not have to give way to a vehicle turning left using a slip lane

In example 5, vehicle B must give way to vehicle A.

70Giving way at a give way sign at a bridge or length of narrow road

A driver approaching a bridge or length of narrow road with a give way sign must give way to any oncoming vehicle that is on the bridge or length of road when the driver reaches the sign.

Offence provision.

Note 1—

Oncoming vehicle is defined in the dictionary.

Note 2—

For this rule, give way means the driver must slow down and, if necessary, stop to avoid a collision—see the definition in the dictionary.

Examples—

Example 1Giving way at a bridge Example 2Giving way at a length of narrow road

In each example, vehicle B must give way to vehicle A.

71Giving way at a give way sign or give way line at other places(1)

A driver approaching or at a place (except an intersection, bridge or length of narrow road, level crossing, or a place with twin red lights) with a give way sign or give way line must give way in accordance with this rule.

Offence provision.

Examples—

• 1

  A give way sign at a break in a dividing strip dividing the part of the road used by the main body of moving vehicles from a service road.

• 2

  A give way sign on a road at a place where a bicycle path meets the road.

Note 1—

Give way line, intersection and twin red lights are defined in the dictionary, and level crossing is defined in rule 120.

Note 2—

For this rule, give way means the driver must slow down and, if necessary, stop to avoid a collision—see the definition in the dictionary.

Note 3—

For the give way rules applying to a driver at an intersection, bridge or length of narrow road, or level crossing, with a give way sign or give way line, see rule 69 (intersections), rule 70 (bridges and lengths of narrow road) and rule 122 (level crossings).

(2)

The driver must give way to any vehicle or pedestrian at or near the give way sign or give way line.

Examples—

Example 1Giving way at a give way sign at a break in a dividing strip Example 2Giving way at a give way sign where a bicycle path meets a road

In example 1, vehicle B must give way to vehicle A.

In example 2, the motor vehicle must give way to the bicycle.

Division 2Giving way at an intersection without traffic lights or a stop sign, stop line, give way sign or give way line applying to the driverNote—

For a driver, a reference in a rule in this Division to a traffic sign or road marking is a reference to a traffic sign or road marking applying to the driver—see rules 338 to 341.

72Giving way at an intersection (except a T-intersection or roundabout)(1)

A driver at an intersection (except a T-intersection or roundabout) without traffic lights or a stop sign, stop line, give way sign or give way line, must give way in accordance with this rule.

Offence provision.

Note 1—

Give way line, intersection, stop line, T-intersection and traffic lights are defined in the dictionary, and roundabout is defined in rule 109.

Note 2—

For this rule, give way means the driver must slow down and, if necessary, stop to avoid a collision—see the definition in the dictionary.

(2)

If the driver is going straight ahead, the driver must give way to any vehicle approaching from the right, unless a stop sign, stop line, give way sign or give way line applies to the driver of the approaching vehicle.

Examples—

Example 1Driver going straight ahead giving way to a vehicle on the right that is going straight ahead Example 2Driver going straight ahead giving way to a vehicle on the right that is turning right

In each example, vehicle B must give way to vehicle A.

Note—

Straight ahead is defined in the dictionary.

(3)

If the driver is turning left (except if the driver is using a slip lane), the driver must give way to:

• (a)

  any vehicle approaching from the right, unless a stop sign, stop line, give way sign or give way line applies to the driver of the approaching vehicle, and

• (b)

  any pedestrian at or near the intersection on the road the driver is entering.

Examples—

Example 3Driver turning left giving way to a vehicle on the right that is going straight ahead Example 4Driver turning left giving way to a pedestrian on the road the driver is entering

In example 3, vehicle B must give way to vehicle A.

In example 4, the vehicle must give way to the pedestrian.

Note—

Slip lane is defined in the dictionary.

(4)

If the driver is turning left using a slip lane, the driver must give way to:

• (a)

  any vehicle approaching from the right or turning right at the intersection into the road the driver is entering (except a vehicle making a U-turn at the intersection), and

• (b)

  any pedestrian on the slip lane.

Example—Example 5Driver turning left using a slip lane giving way to a vehicle that is turning right into the road the driver is entering

In this example, vehicle B must give way to vehicle A.

(5)

If the driver is turning right, the driver must give way to:

• (a)

  any vehicle approaching from the right, unless a stop sign, stop line, give way sign or give way line applies to the driver of the approaching vehicle, and

• (b)

  any oncoming vehicle that is going straight ahead or turning left at the intersection, unless:

  • (i)

    a stop sign, stop line, give way sign or give way line applies to the driver of the oncoming vehicle, or

  • (ii)

    the oncoming vehicle is turning left using a slip lane, and

• (c)

  any pedestrian at or near the intersection on the road the driver is entering.

Note—

Oncoming vehicle is defined in the dictionary.

Examples—

Example 6Driver turning right giving way to a vehicle on the right that is turning right into the road the driver is leaving Example 7Driver turning right giving way to an oncoming vehicle that is going straight ahead on the road the driver is leaving

In examples 6 and 7, vehicle B must give way to vehicle A.

Example 8Driver turning right giving way to an oncoming vehicle that is turning left into the road the driver is entering Example 9Driver turning right giving way to a pedestrian on the road the driver is entering

In example 8, vehicle B must give way to vehicle A.

In example 9, the vehicle must give way to the pedestrian.

73Giving way at a T-intersection(1)

A driver at a T-intersection without traffic lights or a stop sign, stop line, give way sign or give way line, must give way in accordance with this rule.

Offence provision.

Note 1—

Give way line, stop line, T-intersection and traffic lights are defined in the dictionary.

Note 2—

For this rule, give way means the driver must slow down and, if necessary, stop to avoid a collision—see the definition in the dictionary.

Note 3—

Rule 75 (1) (d) requires a driver at a T-intersection to give way when crossing the continuing road to enter a road-related area or adjacent land.

(2)

If the driver is turning left (except if the driver is using a slip lane) or right from the terminating road into the continuing road, the driver must give way to:

• (a)

  any vehicle travelling on the continuing road, and

• (b)

  any pedestrian on the continuing road at or near the intersection.

Note—

Continuing road, slip lane and terminating road are defined in the dictionary.

Examples—

Example 1Driver turning right from the terminating road giving way to a vehicle on the continuing road Example 2Driver turning left (except if the driver is using a slip lane) from the terminating road giving way to a pedestrian on the continuing road

In example 1, vehicle B must give way to vehicle A.

In example 2, the vehicle must give way to the pedestrian.

(3)

If the driver is turning left from the terminating road into the continuing road using a slip lane, the driver must give way to:

• (a)

  any vehicle travelling on the continuing road, and

• (b)

  any pedestrian on the slip lane.

(4)

If the driver is turning left (except if the driver is using a slip lane) from the continuing road into the terminating road, the driver must give way to any pedestrian on the terminating road at or near the intersection.

Example—Example 3Driver turning left (except if the driver is using a slip lane) from the continuing road giving way to a pedestrian on the terminating road

In this example, the vehicle must give way to the pedestrian.

(5)

If the driver is turning from the continuing road into the terminating road using a slip lane, the driver must give way to:

• (a)

  any vehicle approaching from the right, and

• (b)

  any pedestrian on the slip lane.

(6)

If the driver is turning right from the continuing road into the terminating road, the driver must give way to:

• (a)

  any oncoming vehicle that is travelling through the intersection on the continuing road or turning left at the intersection, and

• (b)

  any pedestrian on the terminating road at or near the intersection.

Note—

Oncoming vehicle is defined in the dictionary.

(7)

In this rule:

turning left from the continuing road into the terminating road, for a driver, includes, where the continuing road curves to the right at a T-intersection, leaving the continuing road to proceed straight ahead onto the terminating road.

turning right from the continuing road into the terminating road, for a driver, includes, where the continuing road curves to the left at a T-intersection, leaving the continuing road to proceed straight ahead onto the terminating road.

Note—

Straight ahead is defined in the dictionary.

Examples—

Example 4Driver turning right from the continuing road giving way to an oncoming vehicle travelling through the intersection on the continuing road Example 5Driver leaving the continuing road to proceed straight ahead on the terminating road giving way to a vehicle travelling through the intersection on the continuing road

Example 5 shows a T-intersection where the continuing road (which is marked with broken white lines) goes around a corner. Vehicle B is leaving the continuing road to enter the terminating road. In examples 4 and 5, vehicle B must give way to vehicle A.

Example 6Driver turning right from the continuing road giving way to an oncoming vehicle turning left from the continuing road Example 7Driver turning right from the continuing road giving way to a pedestrian on the terminating road

In example 6, vehicle B must give way to vehicle A.

In example 7, the vehicle must give way to the pedestrian.

Division 3Entering or leaving road-related areas and adjacent land74Giving way when entering a road from a road-related area or adjacent land(1)

A driver entering a road from a road-related area, or adjacent land, without traffic lights or a stop sign, stop line, give way sign or give way line must give way to:

• (a)

  any vehicle travelling on the road or turning into the road (except a vehicle turning right into the road from a road-related area or adjacent land), and

• (b)

  any pedestrian on the road, and

• (c)

  any vehicle or pedestrian on any road-related area that the driver crosses to enter the road, and

• (d)

  for a driver entering the road from a road-related area—any pedestrian on the road-related area.

Offence provision.

Note 1—

Adjacent land, give way line, stop line and traffic lights are defined in the dictionary, and road-related area is defined in rule 13.

Note 2—

Adjacent land or a road-related area can include a driveway, service station or shopping centre—see the definitions of adjacent land and road-related area. Some shopping centres may include roads—see the definition of road in rule 12.

Note 3—

Part 6 applies to the driver if there are traffic lights. Rule 68 applies to the driver if there is a stop sign or stop line, and rule 71 applies to the driver if there is a give way sign or give way line.

Note 4—

For this rule, give way means the driver must slow down and, if necessary, stop to avoid a collision—see the definition in the dictionary.

(2)

In this rule:

road does not include a road-related area.

Note—

A road-related area includes any shoulder of a road—see rule 13.

Example—Driver entering a road from a road-related area giving way to a pedestrian on the footpath and a vehicle on the road

In this example, vehicle B must give way to the pedestrian on the footpath and to vehicle A.

75Giving way when entering a road-related area or adjacent land from a road(1)

A driver entering a road-related area or adjacent land from a place on a road without traffic lights or a stop sign, stop line, give way sign or give way line must give way to:

• (a)

  any pedestrian on the road, and

• (b)

  any vehicle or pedestrian on any road-related area that the driver crosses or enters, and

• (c)

  if the driver is turning right from the road—any oncoming vehicle on the road that is going straight ahead or turning left, and

• (d)

  if the road the driver is leaving ends at a T-intersection opposite the road-related area or adjacent land and the driver is crossing the continuing road—any vehicle on the continuing road.

Offence provision.

Note 1—

Adjacent land, continuing road, give way line, oncoming vehicle, stop line, straight ahead, T-intersection and traffic lights are defined in the dictionary, and road-related area is defined in rule 13.

Note 2—

Adjacent land or a road-related area can include a driveway, service station or shopping centre—see the definitions of adjacent land and road-related area. Some shopping centres may include roads—see the definition of road in rule 12.

Note 3—

For this rule, give way means the driver must slow down and, if necessary, stop to avoid a collision—see the definition in the dictionary.

Note 4—

Part 6 applies to the driver if there are traffic lights. Rule 68 applies to the driver if there is a stop sign or stop line, and rule 71 applies to the driver if there is a give way sign or give way line.

(2)

In this rule:

road does not include a road-related area.

Note—

A road-related area includes any shoulder of a road—see rule 13.

Examples—

Example 1Driver turning right from a road into a road-related area giving way to an oncoming vehicle that is going straight ahead and to a pedestrian on the footpath Example 2Driver crossing a continuing road at a T-intersection to enter a road-related area giving way to a vehicle on the continuing road

In each example, vehicle B must give way to vehicle A. In example 1, vehicle B must also give way to the pedestrian on the footpath.

Division 4Keeping clear of and giving way to particular vehicles76Keeping clear of trams travelling in tram lanes etc(1)

A driver must not move into the path of an approaching tram travelling in a tram lane, or on tram tracks marked along the left side of the tracks by a broken or continuous yellow line parallel to the tracks.

Offence provision.

Note—

Approaching, left, tram and tram tracks are defined in the dictionary, and tram lane is defined in rule 155.

(2)

If a driver is in the path of an approaching tram travelling in a tram lane, or on tram tracks marked along the left side of the tracks by a broken or continuous yellow line parallel to the tracks, the driver must move out of the path of the tram as soon as the driver can do so safely.

Offence provision.

(3)

In this rule:

tram includes a bus travelling along tram tracks.

Note—

Bus and travelling along tram tracks are defined in the dictionary.

77Giving way to buses(1)

A driver driving on a length of road in a built-up area, in the left lane or left line of traffic, must give way to a bus in front of the driver if:

• (a)

  the bus has stopped, or is moving slowly, at the far left side of the road, on a shoulder of the road, or in a bus-stop bay, and

• (b)

  the bus displays a give way to buses sign and the right direction indicator lights of the bus are operating, and

• (c)

  the bus is about to enter or proceed in the lane or line of traffic in which the driver is driving.

Offence provision.

Note 1—

Built-up area, bus and length of road are defined in the dictionary, left lane and left line of traffic are defined in subrule (2), and shoulder is defined in rule 12.

Note 2—

For this rule, give way means the driver must slow down and, if necessary, stop to avoid a collision—see the definition in the dictionary.

Note 3—

The driver of the bus must give the change of direction signal for long enough to give sufficient warning to other drivers and pedestrians—see rule 48 (2) and (3).

Note 4—

Under rule 87 (1), a driver entering a marked lane, or a line of traffic, from the side of the road must give way to any vehicle travelling in the lane or line of traffic. However, the driver of a public bus does not have to give way to a vehicle if the vehicle is required to give way to the bus under this rule and it is safe for the bus to enter the lane, or line of traffic, in which the other vehicle is travelling—see rule 87 (2).

(2)

In this rule:

left lane, of a road, means:

• (a)

  the marked lane nearest to the far left side of the road (the first lane) or, if the first lane is a bicycle lane, the marked lane next to the first lane, or

changes direction see rule 45.

children’s crossing see rule 80.

combination means a group of vehicles consisting of a motor vehicle connected to 1 or more vehicles.

Note—

Motor vehicle is defined in this dictionary, and vehicle is defined in rule 15.

continuing road, for a T-intersection, means the road (except a road-related area) that meets the terminating road at the T-intersection.

Note—

Road-related area is defined in rule 13, and terminating road and T-intersection are defined in this dictionary.

crash includes:

• (a)

  a collision between 2 or more vehicles, or

• (b)

  any other accident or incident involving a vehicle in which a person is killed or injured, property is damaged, or an animal in someone’s charge is killed or injured.

Note—

Vehicle is defined in rule 15.

crossing means a children’s crossing, level crossing, marked foot crossing or pedestrian crossing.

Note—

Children’s crossing is defined in rule 80, level crossing is defined in rule 120, marked foot crossing is defined in this dictionary, and pedestrian crossing is defined in rule 81.

dividing line means a road marking formed by a line, or 2 parallel lines, whether broken or continuous, designed to indicate the parts of the road to be used by vehicles travelling in opposite directions.

Note—

Road marking is defined in this dictionary, and vehicle is defined in rule 15.

dividing strip means an area or structure that divides a road lengthways, but does not include a nature strip, bicycle path, footpath or shared path.

Note—

Bicycle path is defined in rule 239, footpath and nature strip are defined in this dictionary, and shared path is defined in rule 242.

drive includes be in control of.

driver see rules 16 and 19.

driver’s vehicle, for a driver, means the vehicle being driven by the driver.

edge line, for a road, means a line marked along the road at or near the far left or far right side of the road (except any road-related area of the road).

emergency stopping lane see rule 95.

emergency vehicle, for a provision of the Australian Road Rules, means any vehicle driven by a person who is:

• (a)

  an emergency worker for the provision, and

• (b)

  driving the vehicle in the course of his or her duties as an emergency worker.

Note 1—

Emergency worker is defined in this dictionary, and vehicle is defined in rule 15.

Note 2—

Drive includes be in control of—see the definition in this dictionary.

emergency worker, for a provision of the Australian Road Rules, means a person who is an emergency worker for the Rules, or the provision, under another law of this jurisdiction.

enter an intersection or crossing, for the driver of a vehicle or a train, means enter the intersection or crossing with any part of the vehicle or train.

Note—

Crossing and intersection are defined in this dictionary, and vehicle is defined in rule 15.

footpath, except in rule 13 (1), means an area open to the public that is designated for, or has as one of its main uses, use by pedestrians.

Note—

Rule 13 defines road-related area.

freeway see rule 177.

give way, for a driver or pedestrian, means:

• (a)

  if the driver or pedestrian is stopped—remain stationary until it is safe to proceed, or

• (b)

  in any other case—slow down and, if necessary, stop to avoid a collision.

give way line means a broken line that is marked across all or part of a road and is not part of a marked foot crossing.

Note 1—

Marked foot crossing is defined in this dictionary.

Note 2—

There is an example of a give way line in rule 69.

green bicycle crossing light means an illuminated green bicycle symbol as shown in the diagram in Schedule 4.

Note—

Bicycle symbol is defined in this dictionary.

green pedestrian light means:

• (a)

  an illuminated green pedestrian symbol, or

• (b)

  the word “walk” illuminated in green (whether or not flashing).

Note—

Green pedestrian symbol is defined in this dictionary.

green pedestrian symbol means a symbol consisting of a picture of a pedestrian as shown in the diagram in green in Schedule 4.

green traffic arrow means an illuminated green arrow.

green traffic light means an illuminated green disc.

GVM, for a vehicle, means the maximum loaded mass of the vehicle:

• (a)

  specified by the manufacturer on an identification plate on the vehicle, or

• (b)

  if there is no specification by the manufacturer on an identification plate on the vehicle or if the specification is not appropriate because the vehicle has been modified—certified by a vehicle registration authority.

Note—

Vehicle is defined in rule 15.

halfway around, for a roundabout, see rule 110.

hazard warning lights means a pair of yellow direction indicator lights fitted to a vehicle under another law of this jurisdiction that display regular flashes of light at the same time, and at the same rate, as each other, but does not include warning lights fitted, under another law of this jurisdiction, to a bus used for carrying children.

Note—

Bus is defined in this dictionary, and vehicle is defined in rule 15.

high-beam, for a headlight fitted to a vehicle, means that the headlight is built or adjusted so, when the vehicle is standing on level ground, the top of the main beam of light projected is above the headlight’s low-beam.

Note—

Low-beam is defined in this dictionary, and vehicle is defined in rule 15.

hook turn see rules 34 and 35.

intersection means the area where 2 or more roads (except any road-related area) meet, and includes:

• (a)

  any area of the roads where vehicles travelling on different roads might collide, and

• (b)

  the area of any slip lane where the roads meet,

but does not include any road-related area.

Note—

Road is defined in rule 12, road-related area is defined in rule 13, slip lane is defined in this dictionary, and vehicle is defined in rule 15.

keep clear marking see rule 96.

land includes premises or a part of premises.

left, for a person or in relation to something, see rule 351 (1) and (3).

left change of direction signal means a change of direction signal given in accordance with rule 47.

left traffic lane arrows means traffic lane arrows applying to a marked lane that indicate only a direction to the left.

Note—

Marked lane and traffic lane arrows are defined in this dictionary.

length, of road, includes:

• (a)

  a marked lane or a part of a marked lane, and

• (b)

  another part of a length of road.

Note—

Marked lane is defined in this dictionary.

level crossing see rule 120.

loading zone see rule 179.

low-beam, for a headlight fitted to a vehicle, means that the headlight is built or adjusted so, when the vehicle is standing on level ground, the top of the main beam of light projected is:

• (a)

  not higher than the centre of the headlight, when measured 8 metres in front of the vehicle, and

• (b)

  not over 1 metre higher than the level where the vehicle is standing, when measured 25 metres in front of the vehicle.

Note—

Vehicle is defined in rule 15.

mail zone see rule 186.

marked foot crossing means an area of a road:

• (a)

  at a place with pedestrian lights facing pedestrians crossing the road and traffic lights facing vehicles driving on the road, and

• (b)

  indicated by a different road surface, or between 2 parallel continuous or broken lines, or rows of studs or markers, on the road surface substantially from one side of the road to the other.

Example of a different road surface—

The area of road could be indicated by brick paving across a bitumen road.

Note—

Pedestrian lights and traffic lights are defined in this dictionary, and vehicle is defined in rule 15.

marked lane means an area of a road marked by continuous or broken lines, or rows of studs or markers, on the road surface that is designed for use by a single line of vehicles.

Note—

Vehicle is defined in rule 15.

mechanical signalling device means a device that is declared to be a mechanical signalling device for the Australian Road Rules under another law of this jurisdiction.

median strip means a dividing strip designed or developed to separate vehicles travelling in opposite directions.

Note—

Dividing strip is defined in this dictionary, and vehicle is defined in rule 15.

median strip parking area means a parking area on or in a median strip.

Note—

Parking area is defined in this dictionary.

minibus zone see rule 184.

motor bike means a motor vehicle with 2 wheels, and includes:

• (a)

  a 2-wheeled motor vehicle with a sidecar attached to it that is supported by a third wheel, and

• (b)

  a motor vehicle with 3 wheels that is ridden in the same way as a motor vehicle with 2 wheels.

motor vehicle means a vehicle that is built to be propelled by a motor that forms part of the vehicle.

multi-lane road, for a driver, means a one-way road, or a two-way road, with 2 or more marked lanes (except bicycle lanes) that are:

• (a)

  on the side of the dividing line or median strip where the driver is driving, and

• (b)

  for the use of vehicles travelling in the same direction.

Note—

Bicycle lane is defined in rule 153, dividing line, marked lane, median strip, one-way road and two-way road are defined in this dictionary, and vehicle is defined in rule 15.

nature strip, except in rule 13 (1), means an area between a road (except a road-related area) and adjacent land, but does not include a bicycle path, footpath or shared path.

Note 1—

Adjacent land and footpath are defined in this dictionary, bicycle path is defined in rule 239, road is defined in rule 12, and shared path is defined in rule 242.

Note 2—

Rule 13 defines a road-related area.

night means the period between sunset on one day and sunrise on the next day.

no bicycles road marking means a road marking consisting of a bicycle symbol with a diagonal line across it, or the words “no bicycles”, or both the symbol and the words.

Note—

Bicycle symbol and road marking are defined in this dictionary.

obstruction includes a traffic hazard, but does not include a vehicle only because the vehicle is stopped in traffic or is travelling more slowly than other vehicles.

Note—

Vehicle is defined in rule 15.

oncoming vehicle, for a driver, means a vehicle approaching the driver travelling in the opposite direction to the direction in which the driver is driving.

Note—

Vehicle is defined in rule 15.

one-way road means a road with 1 or more marked lanes, all of which are for the use of vehicles travelling in the same direction.

Note—

Marked lane is defined in this dictionary, and vehicle is defined in rule 15.

overhead lane control device means an overhead lane control sign or signal.

overhead lane control sign means a traffic sign displaying a red diagonal cross that is installed on a structure over a road or part of a road.

Note—

Traffic sign is defined in this dictionary.

overhead lane control signal means:

• (a)

  an illuminated red diagonal cross (whether or not flashing), or

• (b)

  an illuminated white, green or yellow arrow pointing downwards or indicating 1 or more directions.

overhead lane control signals means a device on a structure over a road, or part of a road, that is designed to display an overhead lane control signal, or 2 or more overhead lane control signals.

oversize vehicle means a vehicle that is declared to be an oversize vehicle for the Australian Road Rules under another law of this jurisdiction.

Note—

Vehicle is defined in rule 15.

overtake, for a driver, means the action of:

• (a)

  approaching from behind another driver travelling in the same marked lane or line of traffic, and

• (b)

  moving into an adjacent marked lane or line of traffic (whether or not the lane or line of traffic is for drivers travelling in the same direction), and

• (c)

  passing the other driver while travelling in the adjacent marked lane or line of traffic.

Note—

Marked lane is defined in this dictionary.

painted island means an area of a road, surrounded by a line or lines (whether broken or continuous), on which there are stripes marked on the road surface in white or another colour contrasting with the colour of the road.

park, in Part 12 and for a driver, includes stop and allow the driver’s vehicle to stay (whether or not the driver leaves the vehicle).

Note 1—

Driver’s vehicle is defined in this dictionary.

Note 2—

Part 12 deals with restrictions on stopping and parking.

parking area means a length of road or area designed for parking vehicles.

Note—

Vehicle is defined in rule 15.

parking area for people with disabilities see rule 203.

parking bay means an area for parking a single vehicle (other than a combination) that is indicated by:

• (a)

  road markings consisting of lines, studs or other similar devices, or

• (b)

  a different road surface.

Note—

Combination and road marking are defined in this dictionary, and vehicle is defined in rule 15.

parking control sign means any of the following:

• (a)

  a bicycle parking sign,

• (b)

  a bus zone sign,

• (c)

  a clearway sign,

• (d)

  a loading zone sign,

• (e)

  a mail zone sign,

• (f)

  a minibus zone sign,

• (g)

  a motor bike parking sign,

• (h)

  a no parking sign,

• (i)

  a no stopping sign,

• (j)

  a people with disabilities parking sign,

• (k)

  a permissive parking sign,

• (l)

  a permit zone sign,

• (m)

  a taxi zone sign,

• (n)

  a truck zone sign,

• (o)

  a works zone sign.

parking permit for people with disabilities means a permit, issued under another law of this jurisdiction or the law of another jurisdiction, that includes a people with disabilities symbol.

Note—

People with disabilities symbol is defined in this dictionary.

part of the road used by the main body of moving vehicles means the area of the road, except:

• (a)

  any road-related area, and

• (b)

  if the road has 1 or more service roads—the area of any service road.

Note 1—

Road-related area is defined in rule 13, and service road is defined in this dictionary.

Note 2—

A road-related area includes any shoulder of the road—see rule 13.

pedestrian see rule 18.

pedestrian crossing see rule 81.

pedestrian lights means a device designed to show, at different times, a green or red pedestrian light.

Note—

Green pedestrian light and red pedestrian light are defined in this dictionary.

pedestrian symbol means a symbol consisting of a picture of a pedestrian.

Note—

The symbol is, for example, used in a separated footpath sign—see Schedule 2.

people with disabilities road marking see rule 203.

people with disabilities symbol means a picture of a person seated in a wheelchair as shown in the diagrams in Schedule 4.

permit zone see rule 185.

police officer, for a provision of the Australian Road Rules, means a person who is a police officer for the Rules, or the provision, under another law of this jurisdiction.

police vehicle, for a provision of the Australian Road Rules, means any vehicle driven by a person who is:

• (a)

  a police officer for the provision, and

• (b)

  driving the vehicle in the course of his or her duties as a police officer.

Note 1—

Police officer is defined in this dictionary, and vehicle is defined in rule 15.

Note 2—

Drive includes be in control of—see the definition in this dictionary.

portable warning triangle means a portable warning triangle approved, for the Australian Road Rules, under another law of this jurisdiction.

postal vehicle, for a provision of the Australian Road Rules, means a vehicle driven by a person who is:

• (a)

  a postal worker for the provision, and

• (b)

  driving the vehicle in the course of his or her duties as a postal worker.

Note 1—

Postal worker is defined in this dictionary, and vehicle is defined in rule 15.

Note 2—

Drive includes be in control of—see the definition in this dictionary.

postal worker, for a provision of the Australian Road Rules, means a person who is a postal worker for the Rules, or the provision, under another law of this jurisdiction.

public bus, for a provision of the Australian Road Rules, means a vehicle that is declared to be a public bus for the Rules, or the provision, under another law of this jurisdiction.

Note—

Vehicle is defined in rule 15.

public holiday, for a place, means a public holiday at the place under the law of this jurisdiction.

public minibus, for a provision of the Australian Road Rules, means a vehicle that is declared to be a public minibus for the Rules, or the provision, under another law of this jurisdiction.

Note—

Vehicle is defined in rule 15.

red bicycle crossing light means an illuminated red bicycle symbol (whether or not flashing) as shown in the diagram in Schedule 4.

Note—

Bicycle symbol is defined in this dictionary.

red B light means an illuminated red B.

red pedestrian light means:

• (a)

  an illuminated red pedestrian symbol (whether or not flashing), or

• (b)

  the words “dont walk” illuminated in red (whether or not flashing).

Note—

Red pedestrian symbol is defined in this dictionary.

red pedestrian symbol means a symbol consisting of a picture of a pedestrian as shown in the diagram in red in Schedule 4.

red T light means an illuminated red T.

red traffic arrow means an illuminated red arrow.

red traffic light means an illuminated red disc.

ride, for the rider of a motor bike or animal-drawn vehicle, includes be in control of.

Note—

Motor bike is defined in this dictionary.

rider see rule 17.

right, for a person or in relation to something, see rule 351 (2) and (3).

right change of direction signal means a change of direction signal given in accordance with rule 49.

right traffic lane arrows means traffic lane arrows applying to a marked lane that indicate only a direction to the right.

Note—

Marked lane and traffic lane arrows are defined in this dictionary.

road see rules 11 (2) and 12.

road marking means a word, figure, symbol, mark, line, raised marker or stud, or something else, on the surface of a road to direct or warn traffic, but does not include a painted island.

Note—

Painted island is defined in this dictionary.

road-related area see rule 13.

road user see rule 14.

roundabout see rule 109.

safety zone see rule 162.

school zone see rule 23.

separated footpath see rule 239.

separated footpath road marking see rule 239.

service road means the part of a road that:

• (a)

  is separated from other parts of the road by a dividing strip that is not designed or developed, wholly or mainly, to separate vehicles travelling in opposite directions, and

• (b)

  is:

  • (i)

    designed or developed to be used, wholly or mainly, by traffic servicing adjacent land, or

  • (ii)

    indicated to be a service road by information on or with a traffic control device on the road.

Note—

Adjacent land, dividing strip, traffic, traffic control device and with are defined in this dictionary, and vehicle is defined in rule 15.

shared path see rule 242.

shared zone see rule 24.

shoulder see rule 12.

slip lane means an area of road for vehicles turning left that is separated, at some point, from other parts of the road by a painted island or traffic island.

Note—

Painted island and traffic island are defined in this dictionary, and vehicle is defined in rule 15.

special purpose lane means a marked lane, or the part of a marked lane, that is a bicycle lane, bus lane, emergency stopping lane, tram lane, transit lane or truck lane.

Note—

Bicycle lane is defined in rule 153, bus lane is defined in rule 154, emergency stopping lane is defined in rule 95, marked lane is defined in this dictionary, tram lane is defined in rule 155, transit lane is defined in rule 156, and truck lane is defined in rule 157.

speed-limited area see rule 22.

stop, in Part 12 and for a driver, includes park, but does not include stop to reverse the driver’s vehicle into a parking bay or other parking space.

Note 1—

Driver’s vehicle, park and parking bay are defined in this dictionary.

Note 2—

Part 12 deals with restrictions on stopping and parking.

stop line means a continuous line that:

• (a)

  is marked across all or part of a road, and

• (b)

  is not part of a marked foot crossing or a keep clear marking.

Note 1—

Keep clear marking is defined in rule 96, and marked foot crossing is defined in this dictionary.

Note 2—

There is an example of a stop line in rule 67.

straight ahead includes substantially straight ahead.

T-intersection means an intersection where 2 roads meet (whether or not at right angles) and one of the roads ends.

Note—

Intersection is defined in this dictionary.

T light means a red, white or yellow T light.

Note—

Red T light, white T light and yellow T light are defined in this dictionary.

T lights means a device designed to show a T light, or 2 or more T lights at different times.

taxi, for a provision of the Australian Road Rules, means a vehicle that is declared to be a taxi for the Rules, or the provision, under another law of this jurisdiction.

Note—

Vehicle is defined in rule 15.

taxi zone see rule 182.

terminating road, for a T-intersection, means:

• (a)

  if a road (except a road related area) at the intersection is designated by traffic signs or road markings, or in another way, as a road that ends at the intersection—that road, or

• (b)

  in any other case—a road (except a road-related area) that ends at the intersection.

Note—

Road is defined in rule 12, road-related area is defined in rule 13, and T-intersection is defined in this dictionary.

tractor does not include a motor vehicle built to tow a semi-trailer.

Note—

Motor vehicle is defined in this dictionary.

traffic includes vehicles and pedestrians.

Note—

Pedestrian is defined in rule 18, and vehicle is defined in rule 15.

traffic arrow means a green, white or red traffic arrow, or a yellow traffic arrow (whether or not flashing).

Note—

Green traffic arrow, red traffic arrow, white traffic arrow and yellow traffic arrow are defined in this dictionary.

traffic arrows means a device installed with traffic lights that is designed to show a traffic arrow, or 2 or more traffic arrows at different times.

traffic control device means a traffic sign, road marking, traffic signals, or other device, to direct or warn traffic on, entering or leaving a road.

Note—

Various terms used in this definition are defined in this dictionary.

traffic island means a structure on a road to direct traffic, but does not include a road marking or painted island.

Note—

Painted island and road marking are defined in this dictionary.

traffic lane arrows means a traffic sign, road marking or device that displays arrows indicating 1 or more directions and is designed to apply to 1 or more marked lanes, but does not include traffic arrows.

Note—

Marked lane, road marking, traffic arrow and traffic sign are defined in this dictionary.

traffic light means a green traffic light, or a red or yellow traffic light (whether or not flashing).

Note—

Green traffic light, red traffic light and yellow traffic light are defined in this dictionary.

traffic lights means a device designed to show a traffic light, or 2 or more traffic lights in a vertical arrangement and at different times, and includes any traffic arrows installed with or near the device.

traffic lights pole means a pole or other structure on which traffic lights are installed.

traffic-related item means any of the following:

• (a)

  a do not overtake turning vehicle sign,

• (b)

  a give way to buses sign,

• (c)

  a fire hydrant indicator or fire plug indicator.

Note—

Examples of a fire hydrant indicator and fire plug indicator are shown in Schedule 4.

traffic sign means a board, plate, screen, or another device, whether or not illuminated, displaying words, figures, symbols or anything else to direct or warn traffic on, entering or leaving a road, and includes a children crossing flag, a hand-held stop sign, a parking control sign and a variable illuminated message sign, but does not include traffic signals.

Note—

Various terms used in this definition are defined in this dictionary.

traffic signals means bicycle crossing lights, B lights, overhead lane control signals, pedestrian lights, T lights, traffic arrows, traffic lights or twin red or yellow lights.

Note—

Various terms used in this definition are defined in this dictionary.

trailer means a vehicle that is built to be towed, or is towed, by a motor vehicle, but does not include a motor vehicle that is being towed.

Note—

Motor vehicle is defined in this dictionary, and vehicle is defined in rule 15.

tram includes a light rail vehicle.

tram lane see rule 155.

tram tracks includes a rail designed for a light rail vehicle to run on.

transit lane see rule 156.

travelling along tram tracks, for a bus, means being driven along the area where the tram tracks are laid.

Note—

Bus and tram tracks are defined in this dictionary.

trolley includes a shopping trolley and any other kind of handcart.

truck means a motor vehicle with a GVM over 4.5 tonnes, except a bus, tram or tractor.

Note—

Bus, GVM, motor vehicle, tram and tractor are defined in this dictionary.

truck lane see rule 157.

truck zone see rule 180.

turning lane means a marked lane, or the part of a marked lane, for vehicles travelling in one direction to which:

• (a)

  a left turn only sign, a left lane must turn left sign or left traffic lane arrows apply, or

• (b)

  a right turn only sign, a right lane must turn right sign or right traffic lane arrows apply.

Note—

Left traffic lane arrows, marked lane and right traffic lane arrows are defined in this dictionary, and vehicle is defined in rule 15.

twin red lights means a device showing, in a horizontal or diagonal arrangement, 2 illuminated red discs that flash alternately.

twin yellow lights means a device showing, in a horizontal or diagonal arrangement, 2 illuminated yellow discs that flash alternately.

two-way road means a road for use by vehicles travelling in opposite directions.

Note—

Vehicle is defined in rule 15.

U-turn means a turn made by a driver so that the driver’s vehicle faces in approximately the opposite direction from which it was facing immediately before the turn was made, but does not include a turn made at a roundabout.

Note—

Driver’s vehicle is defined in this dictionary, and roundabout is defined in rule 109.

variable illuminated message device means a device designed to display, and to change or turn off from time to time by electronic or optical means, illuminated words, figures, symbols, or anything else, to direct or warn traffic on, entering or leaving a road, but does not include traffic signals.

Note—

Traffic is defined in this dictionary.

variable illuminated message sign means the illuminated words, figures, symbols, or other things, displayed at any relevant time on a variable illuminated message device.

vehicle see rule 15.

wheelchair means a chair mounted on 2 or more wheels that is built to transport a person who is unable to walk or has difficulty in walking, but does not include a pram, stroller or trolley.

Note—

Trolley is defined in this dictionary.

wheeled recreational device means a wheeled device, built to transport a person, propelled by human power or gravity, and ordinarily used for recreation or play, and:

• (a)

  includes rollerblades, rollerskates, a skateboard or similar wheeled device, but

• (b)

  does not include a golf buggy, pram, stroller or trolley, or a bicycle, wheelchair or wheeled toy.

Note—

Bicycle, trolley, wheelchair and wheeled toy are defined in this dictionary.

wheeled toy means a child’s pedal car, scooter or tricycle or a similar toy, but only when it is being used only by a child who is under 12 years old.

white B light means an illuminated white B as shown in the diagram in Schedule 4.

white T light means an illuminated white T as shown in the diagram in Schedule 4.

white traffic arrow means an illuminated white arrow.

with, for information about the application of a traffic control device, includes accompanying or reasonably associated with the device.

works zone see rule 181.

yellow bicycle crossing light means an illuminated yellow bicycle symbol (whether or not flashing) as shown in the diagram in Schedule 4.

Note—

Bicycle symbol is defined in this dictionary.

yellow B light means an illuminated yellow B.

yellow T light means an illuminated yellow T.

yellow traffic arrow means an illuminated yellow arrow.

yellow traffic light means an illuminated yellow disc.