Road Rules 2008 (NSW)

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Part 1IntroductoryDivision 1General1Name of Rules

These Rules are the Road Rules 2008.

2Commencement

These Rules commence on 1 July 2008.

3Objects of these Rules

The objects of these Rules are:

  • (a)

    to consolidate in a single instrument the road rules that are applicable in New South Wales, and

  • (b)

    to provide for road rules that are based on the Australian Road Rules so as to ensure that the road rules applicable in this State are substantially uniform with road rules applicable elsewhere in Australia, and

  • (c)

    to provide for other road rules to be observed in this State in relation to matters that are not otherwise dealt with in the Australian Road Rules.

Note—

This rule is not uniform with the corresponding rule 3 of the Australian Road Rules.

Division 2Some features of these Rules4Definitions—the Dictionary etc(1)

The Dictionary at the end of these Rules defines certain words and expressions, and includes references to certain words and expressions defined elsewhere in these 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 these 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 these Rules.

(2)

The Dictionary is part of these Rules.

(3)

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

(3–1)

If a word or expression used in a provision of these Rules is defined in the Act, it has the same meaning as in the Act, unless the word or expression is defined in these Rules for the purposes of the provision or these Rules generally.

Note 1—

The Act is defined in the Dictionary. A number of words or expressions used in these Rules are also defined in the Act.

Note 2—

This subrule is an additional NSW subrule. There is no corresponding subrule in rule 4 of the Australian Road Rules.

5Diagrams

A diagram in these Rules is part of these 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 these 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, 3 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 these Rules is part of these Rules.

(2)

If these Rules include an example of the operation of a provision of these Rules:

  • (a)

    the example is not exhaustive, and

  • (b)

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

7Australian Road Rule not reproduced

*****

Note—

Rule 7 (Headings) of the Australian Road Rules has not been reproduced in these Rules because section 35 of the Interpretation Act 1987 makes provision for the status of headings in legislation of this jurisdiction.

8Notes

A note in these Rules is explanatory and is not part of these Rules.

9Australian Road Rule not reproduced

*****

Note 1—

Rule 9 (Reader’s Guide) of the Australian Road Rules has not been reproduced in these Rules because the Reader’s Guide to which that rule refers has not been included in these Rules. This rule has been left blank in order to preserve uniformity of numbering with the Australian Road Rules.

Note 2—

For the purposes of comparison, a number of provisions of these Rules contain bracketed notes in headings drawing attention (“cf RRR”) to equivalent or comparable (though not necessarily identical) provisions of the Road Transport (Safety and Traffic Management) (Road Rules) Regulation 1999 as in force immediately before the commencement of these Rules.

10Australian Road Rule not reproduced

*****

Note 1—

Rule 10 (Offences) of the Australian Road Rules has not been reproduced in these Rules because it is unnecessary. This rule has been left blank in order to preserve uniformity of numbering with the Australian Road Rules.

Note 2—

These Rules indicate whether a contravention of a rule is an offence by the use of the words “penalty” or “maximum penalty” as appropriate—see rule 10–1 (4) and sections 17 (Penalty units) and 18 (Interpretation of provisions imposing penalties) of the Crimes (Sentencing Procedure) Act 1999.

10–1NSW rule: determination of criminal responsibility(cf RRR, cll 33–35)(1)

Subject to this rule, Chapter 2 of the Criminal Code set out in the Schedule to the Criminal Code Act 1995 of the Commonwealth (the Commonwealth Criminal Code) applies to an offence against these Rules as if the Chapter were in force as a law of New South Wales.

Note—

Chapter 2 of the Commonwealth Criminal Code codifies the general principles of criminal responsibility.

(2)

An offence against these Rules is a strict liability offence for the purposes of Chapter 2 of the Commonwealth Criminal Code (as applied by subrule (1)), except where these Rules expressly provide otherwise.

(3)

Without limiting any defence under Chapter 2 of the Commonwealth Criminal Code (as applied by subrule (1)), a person is not liable to a penalty for any offence under these Rules if the person proves to the satisfaction of the court dealing with the case that the offence:

  • (a)

    was the result of an accident, or

  • (b)

    could not have been avoided by any reasonable efforts on the person’s part.

(4)

Nothing in these Rules affects the application of the Crimes (Sentencing Procedure) Act 1999 in relation to these Rules (particularly, Divisions 4 and 5 of Part 2 of that Act).

Note 1—

Divisions 4 and 5 of Part 2 of the Crimes (Sentencing Procedure) Act 1999 contain provisions relating to how offence provisions are to be interpreted. For instance, section 17 of that Act defines the amount of a penalty unit. Similarly, section 18 of that Act sets out rules for interpreting provisions in legislation that impose penalties.

Note 2—

This rule is an additional NSW road rule. There is no corresponding rule in the Australian Road Rules. However, it is intended that each Australian jurisdiction that adopts the Australian Road Rules is to apply the provisions of the Commonwealth Criminal Code to offences against the uniform rules.

10–2NSW rule: penalties and disqualifications for speeding offences(cf RRR cl 154)(1)

In this rule:

heavy motor vehicle means:

  • (a)

    a motor vehicle with a GVM over 12 tonnes, or

  • (b)

    a motor vehicle and trailer combination with a GCM over 12 tonnes.

large motor vehicle means:

  • (a)

    a coach, or

  • (b)

    a motor vehicle with a GVM over 4.5 tonnes, or

  • (c)

    a motor vehicle and trailer combination with a GCM over 4.5 tonnes.

speed limit, in relation to a speeding offence, means the speed limit that was contravened in committing the offence.

speeding offence means an offence under Part 3 (Speed limits).

Note—

Motor vehicle, combination and trailer are defined in the Dictionary, and coach, GCM and GVM are defined in the Act.

(2)

A driver who commits a speeding offence in any of the circumstances referred to in subrule (3), (5) or (6) is:

  • (a)

    liable to the maximum penalty specified in this rule for an offence committed in those circumstances, and

  • (b)

    disqualified from holding a driver licence for the period specified in this rule for an offence committed in those circumstances.

Note—

Driver licence is defined in the Act.

(3)

A driver who commits a speeding offence by exceeding a speed limit by more than 45 kilometres per hour is:

  • (a)

    liable to a maximum penalty of 34 penalty units (in the case of a heavy motor vehicle or coach) or 23 penalty units (in any other case), and

  • (b)

    disqualified from holding a driver licence by a conviction for the offence (and without any specific order) for 6 months from holding a driver licence or, if the court on the conviction thinks fit to order a different period of disqualification determined in accordance with subrule (4), is disqualified for the period specified in the order.

Note—

Coach is defined in the Act.

(4)

In determining a different period of disqualification under subrule (3) for a driver who commits a speeding offence, the court may specify a period that is:

  • (a)

    more than 6 months, or

  • (b)

    less than 6 months, but only if:

    • (i)

      the person’s driver licence or authority to drive in New South Wales has been suspended for a period (the suspension period) under Division 4 of Part 7.4 of the Act for that offence, and

    • (ii)

      the specified disqualification period when added to the suspension period results in a total period of no less than 6 months.

(5)

A driver who commits a speeding offence by exceeding a speed limit by more than 30 kilometres per hour is:

  • (a)

    liable to a maximum penalty of 20 penalty units, and

  • (b)

    disqualified from holding a driver licence by a conviction for the offence (and without any specific order) for 3 months from holding a driver licence or, if the court on the conviction thinks fit to order a longer period of disqualification, is disqualified for the period specified in the order.

(6)

A driver who commits a speeding offence by exceeding a speed limit by 30 kilometres per hour or less is liable to a maximum penalty of 20 penalty units.

(7)

If a driver is prosecuted under subrule (3) for a speeding offence in circumstances where the court:

  • (a)

    is satisfied that the person exceeded the relevant speed limit, but

  • (b)

    is not satisfied that it was exceeded by more than 45 kilometres per hour,

the court may instead convict the driver of an offence in accordance with subrule (5) if satisfied that the speed limit was exceeded by more than 30 kilometres per hour, or in accordance with subrule (6) if satisfied that the speed limit was exceeded by 30 kilometres per hour or less.

(8)

If a driver is prosecuted under subrule (5) for a speeding offence in circumstances where the court:

  • (a)

    is satisfied that the person exceeded the relevant speed limit, but

  • (b)

    is not satisfied that the speed limit was exceeded by more than 30 kilometres per hour,

the court may instead convict the driver of an offence in accordance with subrule (6).

(9)

A period of disqualification imposed by or under this rule commences on the date of conviction for the offence to which it relates.

Note—

This rule is an additional NSW road rule. There is no corresponding rule in the Australian Road Rules. However, the Australian Road Rules allow another law of this jurisdiction to make provision for penalties.

Part 2Application of these RulesDivision 1Roads and road related areas11Rules apply to vehicles and road users on roads and road related areas(1)

These 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 these Rules (except in this Division) to a road includes a reference to a road related area, unless otherwise expressly stated in these 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 these 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 these Rules, or

  • (b)

    any shoulder of the road.

Note—

The Minister administering the Act may, by order under section 18 of that Act, declare that provisions of the road transport legislation do not apply to a road or road related area or do apply to a specified area of the State that is open to or used by the public. The road transport legislation includes these Rules.

(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 these 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 these 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 these Rules.

Note 1—

Shoulder is defined in rule 12.

Note 2—

The Minister administering the Act may, by order under section 18 of that Act, declare that provisions of the road transport legislation do not apply to a road or road related area or do apply to a specified area of the State that is open to or used by the public. The road transport legislation includes these Rules.

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 these Rules, each reference in these Rules (except in this Division) to a driver includes a reference to a rider, and each reference in these 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.

Penalty and disqualification: a driver who contravenes this rule is guilty of an offence and is liable to a maximum penalty and a period of disqualification (if any) determined in accordance with rule 10–2.

Note 1—

The rules about speed limits are as follows:

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

  • rule 21–1—NSW rule: school bus stop zone sign is speed limit sign

  • 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 24–1—NSW rule: speed limits for learner and provisional licence holders

  • rule 24–2—NSW rule: speed limit on Lord Howe Island

  • rule 24–3—NSW rule: speed limit when bus displaying when lights flash speed limit sign

  • rule 24–4—NSW rule: speed limits for small motor bikes during periods of darkness

  • 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.

Note 5—

Division 3 of Part 5.3 of the Act provides that a person bringing proceedings or issuing a penalty notice in which it is alleged that the driver of a heavy vehicle committed a speeding offence may rely on the average speed at which the vehicle travelled between different points on a road as evidence of the offence.

If there is more than one speed limit applicable to the driver between the different points, Division 3 of Part 5.3 of the Act provides that for the purposes of such proceedings the speed limit that applied to the driver between those points is taken to be the average speed limit calculated in accordance with that Division.

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 vehicle with a GVM over 4.5 tonnes or a vehicle and trailer combination with a GCM over 4.5 tonnes, the speed limit applying to the driver for the length of road is 100 kilometres per hour.

Note 1—

Combination and trailer are defined in the Dictionary, vehicle is defined in rule 15, and GCM and GVM are defined in the Act.

Note 2—

This subrule is not uniform with the corresponding subrule in rule 21 of the Australian Road Rules. Different rules may apply in other Australian jurisdictions.

(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 signSpeed derestriction sign
Note 1 for diagrams—

There are a number of other permitted versions 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).

21–1NSW rule: school bus stop zone sign is speed limit sign(cf RRR, cl 3 of Sch 1)(1)

For the purposes of rule 21:

  • (a)

    a school bus stop zone sign is a speed limit sign, and

  • (b)

    an end school bus stop zone sign is an end speed limit sign in respect of a school bus stop zone sign.

(2)

For the purposes of the application of this Part with respect to a length of road to which a school bus stop zone sign applies, the speed limit indicated by the sign applies to a driver only while the warning system of a bus is activated along that length of road.

Note—

Length of road is defined in the Dictionary.

(3)

In this rule:

warning system of a bus means the warning system referred to in clause 25 of the Road Transport (General) Regulation 2013.

School bus stop zone signEnd school bus stop zone sign
Note for diagrams—

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

Note—

This rule is an additional NSW road rule. There is no corresponding rule in the Australian Road Rules. Different speed limit signs may apply to drivers in other Australian jurisdictions.

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 signEnd 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 signEnd school zone sign
Note 1 for diagrams—

There are other permitted versions of the school zone sign—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).

Note 3 for diagrams—

School days are any days other than a Saturday or Sunday, a day that is a public holiday or a day publicly notified as a school holiday for government schools—see rule 318 (3–1).

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, or the 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:

  • (a)

    if there is a shared zone sign and an end shared zone 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 shared zone sign on a road that ends in a dead end and there is no intersection on the length of road beginning at the sign and ending at the dead end—that length of road, or

  • (c)

    a network of roads in an area with:

    • (i)

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

    • (ii)

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

  • (d)

    a road related area that is between a shared zone sign that relates to the area and an end shared zone sign that relates to 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.

Shared zone signEnd shared zone sign
24–1NSW rule: speed limits for learner and provisional licence holders(cf RRR, cl 38 (4)–(6))(1)

The speed limit applying for any length of road to a driver who is the holder of a learner licence issued in New South Wales is 90 kilometres per hour, unless another lesser speed limit applies to the driver for the length of road under another rule of this Part.

Note—

Length of road is defined in the Dictionary, and learner licence is defined in the Act.

(2)

The speed limit applying for any length of road to a driver who is the holder of a provisional P1 licence is 90 kilometres per hour, unless another lesser speed limit applies to the driver for the length of road under another rule of this Part.

Note—

Provisional P1 licence is defined in the Dictionary.

(3)

The speed limit applying for any length of road to a driver who is the holder of a provisional P2 licence is 100 kilometres per hour, unless another lesser speed limit applies to the driver for the length of road under another rule of this Part.

Note—

Provisional P2 licence is defined in the Dictionary.

(4)

This rule has effect despite any other rule in this Part that specifies a speed limit applying to a driver for a length of road that is greater than the speed limit applying to the driver under this rule.

Note—

This rule is an additional NSW road rule. There is no corresponding rule in the Australian Road Rules.

24–2NSW rule: speed limit on Lord Howe Island(cf RRR, cl 39)(1)

The speed limit applying to a driver for any length of road on Lord Howe Island is 25 kilometres per hour.

Note—

Length of road is defined in the Dictionary.

(2)

This rule has effect despite any other rule in this Part specifying the speed limit applying to a driver for a length of road.

Note—

This rule is an additional NSW road rule. There is no corresponding rule in the Australian Road Rules.

24–3NSW rule: speed limit when bus displaying when lights flash speed limit sign(cf RRR, cl 40)(1)

This rule applies to a driver if:

  • (a)

    the vehicle being driven by the driver is approaching from the rear of a bus (whether stationary or in motion) that displays a when lights flash speed limit sign, and

  • (b)

    the bus is fitted with a warning system, and

  • (c)

    the warning system is activated.

Note—

Bus is defined in the Dictionary.

(2)

The speed limit applying to a driver to whom this rule applies for any length of road while overtaking or passing the bus is 40 kilometres per hour, unless another lesser speed limit applies to the driver for the length of road under another rule of this Part.

Note—

Length of road and overtake are defined in the Dictionary.

(3)

This rule does not apply to a driver in relation to a length of road to which a sign referred to in rule 21–1 applies.

(4)

This rule has effect despite any other rule in this Part that specifies a speed limit applying to a driver for a length of road that is greater than the speed limit applying to the driver under this rule.

(5)

In this rule:

warning system of a bus means the warning system referred to in clause 25 of the Road Transport (General) Regulation 2013.

Note—

This rule is an additional NSW road rule. There is no corresponding rule in the Australian Road Rules.

When lights flash speed limit signNote for diagram—

This sign is displayed on buses.

24–4NSW rule: speed limits for small motor bikes during periods of darkness(cf RRR, cl 54)(1)

The speed limit applying to the rider of a motor bike on any length of road during a period of darkness is:

  • (a)

    if the engine capacity of the bike does not exceed 100 millilitres—40 kilometres per hour, or

  • (b)

    if the engine capacity of the bike exceeds 100 millilitres but does not exceed 200 millilitres—50 kilometres per hour,

unless another lesser speed limit applies to the rider for the length of road under another rule of this Part.

Note—

Length of road and motor bike are defined in the Dictionary.

(2)

This rule does not apply to any motor bike that is fitted with a headlight having an effective range of at least 50 metres.

(3)

This rule has effect despite any other rule in this Part that specifies a speed limit applying to a driver for a length of road that is greater than the speed limit applying to the driver under this rule.

(4)

In this rule:

headlight has the same meaning as in Division 1 of Part 13.

period of darkness has the same meaning as in Division 1 of Part 13.

Note—

This rule is an additional NSW road rule. There is no corresponding rule in the Australian Road Rules.

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 50 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 vehicle with a GVM over 4.5 tonnes or a vehicle and trailer combination with a GCM over 4.5 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—

Combination and trailer are defined in the Dictionary, vehicle is defined in rule 15, and GCM and GVM are defined in the Act.

Note 2—

Subrule (3) (a) is not uniform with the corresponding paragraph in rule 25 of the Australian Road Rules. Different rules may apply in other Australian jurisdictions.

25–1NSW rule: drivers to which Part does not apply(cf RRR, cl 41)(1)

The provisions of this Part (other than this rule) do not apply to a driver who is taking part in a race, an attempt to break a vehicle speed record, a trial of speed or any competitive trial as referred to in section 115 (1) of the Act in accordance with an approval given, and any conditions imposed by the Commissioner of Police, under section 115 (2) of the Act.

(2)

Nothing in this Part is to be construed so as to justify the driving of any vehicle on a length of road at a speed that:

  • (a)

    having regard to all the circumstances of the case, is dangerous to the public, or

  • (b)

    exceeds any maximum speed applicable to the vehicle that is fixed by or under any Act or statutory rule or that is stated in any notice applicable to the vehicle and displayed in accordance with any law on the road or in a position where it is visible from the road.

(3)

In subrule (2) (a), the circumstances of the case include the following:

  • (a)

    the nature, condition and use of the road,

  • (b)

    the amount of traffic that actually is at the relevant time, or that might reasonably be expected to be, on that road,

  • (c)

    the proximity of any intersection or grades or curves in the road.

Note—

This rule is an additional NSW road rule. There is no corresponding rule in the Australian Road Rules.

Part 4Making turnsDivision 1Left turns26Application of Division to roundabouts, road related areas and adjacent land(1)

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

Note 1—

Roundabout is defined in rule 109.

Note 2—

Part 9 deals with entering and leaving a roundabout.

(2)

This Division applies to a driver turning left from a road into a road related area or adjacent land, or from a road related area into a road, as if the driver were turning left at an intersection.

Note 1—

Adjacent land and intersection are 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.

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

Note 3—

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

(3)

In this rule:

road does not include a road related area.

Note—

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

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.

Maximum penalty: 20 penalty units.

(1A)

Subrule (1) also applies to a rider of a bicycle who approaches and enters an intersection from a bicycle storage area.

Note—

Bicycle storage area is defined in the Dictionary.

(1B)

Despite subrule (1), if there is space in a bicycle storage area for 2 riders of bicycles to be next to each other, the rider on the right may approach and enter the intersection as near as practicable to the right side of the other rider, but only if that other rider approaches and enters the intersection in accordance with this rule.

(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 (1A) or (2) applies to the driver.

Maximum penalty: 20 penalty units.

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
(1A)

A driver turning left at an intersection from a multi-lane road that has a slip lane must approach and enter the intersection:

  • (a)

    from within the slip lane, or

  • (b)

    if there is an obstruction that prevents the driver from entering the intersection from within the slip lane—from within the left lane.

Maximum penalty: 20 penalty units.

Note—

Obstruction and slip lane are defined in the Dictionary.

(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—

Rule 316–2 makes it an offence for a do not overtake turning vehicle sign to be displayed on the rear of a motor vehicle or a trailer attached to a motor vehicle unless the vehicle is, or the vehicle and trailer together are, 7.5 metres or more in length.

Example—Long vehicle turning left from the left lane and next marked lane
(2A)

If there is a bicycle storage area before an intersection that extends across one or more marked lanes of a multi-lane road, a rider of a bicycle turning left must approach and enter the intersection from within the part of the bicycle storage area that is directly in front of the left marked lane or of a bicycle lane that is on the left side of the road.

Maximum penalty: 20 penalty units.

Note—

Bicycle storage area is defined in the Dictionary.

(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—

Special purpose lane is 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 1 for diagrams—

These signs are displayed on certain long vehicles.

Note 2 for diagrams—

These signs must comply with the size requirements set out in rule 316–1.

29Making a left turn as indicated by a turn line(1)

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

  • (a)

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

  • (b)

    subrule (2) applies to the driver.

Maximum penalty: 20 penalty units.

Note—

B lights, intersection, traffic arrows and turn line are defined in the Dictionary.

Example—Making a left turn as indicated by a turn line
(2)

A driver may turn left at an intersection other than as indicated by a turn line 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)

    it is not practicable for the driver to turn left as indicated by the turn line, and

  • (d)

    the driver can safely turn left other than as indicated by the turn line.

Note 1—

Driver’s vehicle is defined in the Dictionary.

Note 2—

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

Note 3—

Rule 316–2 makes it an offence for a do not overtake turning vehicle sign to be displayed on the rear of a motor vehicle or a trailer attached to a motor vehicle unless the vehicle is, or the vehicle and trailer together are, 7.5 metres or more in length.

Do not overtake turning vehicle signs
Note 1 for diagrams—

These signs are displayed on certain long vehicles.

Note 2 for diagrams—

These signs must comply with the size requirements set out in rule 316–1.

Division 2Right turns30Application of Division to certain right 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 making a U-turn, or

  • (d)

    a driver entering or leaving a roundabout.

Note 1—

Bicycle, intersection and U-turn are defined in the Dictionary and roundabout is defined in rule 109.

Note 2—

Division 3 of this Part deals with hook turns, Division 4 deals with U-turns and Part 9 deals with entering and leaving a roundabout.

Note 3—

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

(2)

This Division applies to a driver turning right from a road into a road related area or adjacent land, or from a road related area into a road, as if the driver were turning right at an intersection.

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.

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

(3)

In this rule:

road does not include a road related area.

Note—

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

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.

Maximum penalty: 20 penalty units.

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.

(4A)

Subrules (2), (3) and (4) also apply to a rider of a bicycle who approaches and enters an intersection from a bicycle storage area.

Note—

Bicycle storage area is defined in the Dictionary.

(4B)

Despite subrules (2), (3) and (4), if there is space in a bicycle storage area for 2 riders of bicycles to be next to each other, the rider on the left may approach and enter the intersection as near as practicable to the left side of the other rider, but only if that other rider approaches and enters the intersection in accordance with this rule.

(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.

Maximum penalty: 20 penalty units.

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—

Rule 316–2 makes it an offence for a do not overtake turning vehicle sign to be displayed on the rear of a motor vehicle or a trailer attached to a motor vehicle unless the vehicle is, or the vehicle and trailer together are, 7.5 metres or more in length.

(2A)

If there is a bicycle storage area before an intersection that extends across one or more marked lanes of a multi-lane road, a rider of a bicycle turning right (but not making a hook turn) must approach and enter the intersection from within the part of the bicycle storage area that is directly in front of the right marked lane or of a bicycle lane that is on the right side of the road.

Maximum penalty: 20 penalty units.

Note—

Bicycle storage area is defined in the Dictionary.

(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 1 for diagrams—

These signs are displayed on certain long vehicles.

Note 2 for diagrams—

These signs must comply with the size requirements set out in rule 316–1.

33Making a right turn(1)

A driver turning right at an intersection must make the turn in accordance with this rule unless:

  • (a)

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

  • (b)

    subrule (4) applies to the driver.

Maximum penalty: 20 penalty units.

Note—

B lights, intersection and traffic arrows are defined in the Dictionary.

(2)

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

Note—

Turn line is defined in the Dictionary.

(3)

If there is no turn line indicating how the turn is required to be made, the driver must make the turn so the driver:

  • (a)

    passes as near as practicable to the right of the centre of the intersection, and

  • (b)

    turns into the left of the centre of the road the driver is entering, unless the driver is entering a one-way road.

Note—

Centre of the road is defined in the Dictionary.

Examples—Example 1Making a right turn as indicated by turn linesExample 2Making a right turn from a road with no turn lines indicating how to make the turn
(4)

A driver may turn right other than as indicated by a turn line 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)

    it is not practicable for the driver to turn right as indicated by the turn line, and

  • (d)

    the driver can safely make the turn other than as indicated by the turn line.

Note 1—

Driver’s vehicle is defined in the Dictionary.

Note 2—

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

Note 3—

Rule 316–2 makes it an offence for a do not overtake turning vehicle sign to be displayed on the rear of a motor vehicle or a trailer attached to a motor vehicle unless the vehicle is, or the vehicle and trailer together are, 7.5 metres or more in length.

Do not overtake turning vehicle signs
Note 1 for diagrams—

These signs are displayed on certain long vehicles.

Note 2 for diagrams—

These signs must comply with the size requirements set out in rule 316–1.

Division 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.

Maximum penalty: 20 penalty units.

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 signMaking 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).

Maximum penalty: 20 penalty units.

(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.

(4)

To make a hook turn under this rule at an intersection that has a bicycle hook turn storage area on the left side of the intersection as the rider approaches the intersection, the rider must take the following initial 2 steps instead of the initial 2 steps listed in subrule (3):

  • 1

    Approach the intersection from the far left side of the road the rider is leaving and enter the intersection by moving into the bicycle hook turn storage area, keeping clear of any marked foot crossing.

  • 2

    Move forward in the bicycle hook turn storage area until the rider is as near as practicable to the far side of the road that the rider is entering.

Note—

Bicycle hook turn storage area is defined in the Dictionary.

Example—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.

Maximum penalty: 20 penalty units.

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.

Maximum penalty: 20 penalty units.

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.

Maximum penalty: 20 penalty units.

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.

Maximum penalty: 20 penalty units.

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.

Maximum penalty: 20 penalty units.

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)
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.

Maximum penalty: 20 penalty units.

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.

Maximum penalty: 20 penalty units.

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.

Maximum penalty: 20 penalty units.

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 strip43

(Repealed)

Note—

Rule 43 of the Australian Road Rules has been repealed. Reference to this repealed rule has been retained in order to preserve uniformity with the Australian Road Rules.

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 roadExample 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.

Maximum penalty: 20 penalty units.

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.

Maximum penalty: 20 penalty units.

(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.

Maximum penalty: 20 penalty units.

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.

(3A)

Subrule (3) does not apply to the rider of a bicycle that is stopped in traffic but not parked.

(4)

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

Maximum penalty: 20 penalty units.

(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 these Rules, or

  • (b)

    as part of the vehicle’s hazard warning lights.

Maximum penalty: 20 penalty units.

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.

Maximum penalty: 20 penalty units.

(2)

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

Maximum penalty: 20 penalty units.

(3)

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

Maximum penalty: 20 penalty units.

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, traffic arrows and twin red lightsDivision 1Obeying traffic lights and traffic arrowsNote 1—

Traffic arrows and traffic lights are defined in the Dictionary. Traffic arrows are a traffic control device 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,

and must not proceed past the stop line, stop here on red signal sign or nearest or only traffic lights (as the case may be) until the traffic lights show a green or flashing yellow traffic light or no traffic light.

Maximum penalty: 20 penalty units.

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 here on red signal sign at 2 if there is a red traffic light showing on the road the driver is entering (see 2 and 3).

(1A)

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.

(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,

and must not proceed past the stop line, stop here on red arrow sign or nearest or only traffic arrows (as the case may be) until the traffic arrows show a green or flashing yellow traffic arrow or no traffic arrow.

Maximum penalty: 20 penalty units.

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 signStop here on red arrow sign
(3)

If there is a bicycle storage area before any traffic lights referred to in subrule (1) or (2), a reference to the stop line in subrule (1) (a) or (2) (a):

  • (a)

    in the case of a driver of a motor vehicle, is a reference to the first stop line that the driver comes, or came, to in approaching the lights, and

  • (b)

    in the case of a rider of a bicycle, is a reference to the stop line that is nearest to the intersection.

Note—

Bicycle storage area is defined in the Dictionary.

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

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

  • (a)

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

  • (c)

    if the traffic lights 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,

and must not proceed past the stop line or nearest or only traffic lights, or into the intersection (as the case may be), until the traffic lights show a green or flashing yellow traffic light or no traffic light.

Maximum penalty: 20 penalty units.

Note—

Enter, intersection, stop line and yellow traffic light are defined in the Dictionary.

(2)

A driver approaching or at traffic arrows showing a yellow 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 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 arrows and the driver can stop safely before reaching the traffic arrows—as near as practicable to, but before reaching, the nearest or only traffic arrows, or

  • (c)

    if the traffic 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,

and must not proceed past the stop line or nearest or only traffic arrows, or into the intersection (as the case may be), until the traffic arrows show a green or flashing yellow traffic arrow or no traffic arrow.

Maximum penalty: 20 penalty units.

Note—

Enter, intersection, stop line and yellow traffic arrow are defined in the Dictionary.

(3)

If the traffic lights or traffic arrows (as the case may be) are at an intersection and the driver is not able to stop safely under subrule (1) or (2) (as the case may be) and enters the intersection, the driver must leave the intersection as soon as the driver can do so safely.

Maximum penalty: 20 penalty units.

Note 1—

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

Note 2—

This rule applies to a driver turning left using a slip lane only if the yellow traffic light or yellow traffic arrow (as the case may be) 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.

(4)

If there is a bicycle storage area before any traffic lights referred to in subrule (1) or (2), a reference to the stop line in subrule (1) (a) or (2) (a):

  • (a)

    in the case of a driver of a motor vehicle, is a reference to the first stop line that the driver comes, or came, to in approaching the lights, and

  • (b)

    in the case of a rider of a bicycle, is a reference to the stop line that is nearest to the intersection.

Note—

Bicycle storage area is defined in the Dictionary.

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 or marked foot crossing are showing a red traffic light, a driver must not enter the intersection or marked foot crossing.

Maximum penalty: 20 penalty units.

Note 1—

Enter, intersection, marked foot crossing 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, and proceeding while the light remains red or yellow. 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 rule 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 or marked foot crossing 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 or marked foot crossing.

Maximum penalty: 20 penalty units.

Note 1—

Enter, intersection, marked foot crossing 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.

60AProceeding through a bicycle storage area before a red traffic light or arrow(1)

If there is a bicycle storage area before traffic lights that are showing a red traffic light, a driver of a motor vehicle must not allow any part of the vehicle to enter the bicycle storage area.

Maximum penalty: 20 penalty units.

Note—

Bicycle storage area, red traffic light and motor vehicle are defined in the Dictionary.

(2)

If there is a bicycle storage area before traffic arrows that are showing a red traffic arrow, and a driver of a motor vehicle is turning in the direction indicated by the arrow, the driver must not allow any part of the vehicle to enter the bicycle storage area.

Maximum penalty: 20 penalty units.

Note—

Red traffic arrow is defined in the Dictionary.

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 traffic arrows (as the case may be) 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.

Maximum penalty: 20 penalty units.

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 rule 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 traffic arrows (as the case may be) 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.

Maximum penalty: 20 penalty units.

Note—

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

Division 2Giving way at traffic lights and traffic arrowsNote—

Traffic lights are defined in the Dictionary.

62Giving way when turning at an intersection with traffic lights(1)

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

  • (a)

    any pedestrian at or near the intersection who is crossing 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).

Maximum penalty: 20 penalty units.

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.

Note 5—

In relation to paragraph (a), rule 353 (1) specifies that a driver is not required to give way to a pedestrian who is crossing the road that the driver is leaving, and rule 353 (2) provides that a pedestrian who is only crossing a part of a road is considered to be crossing the road.

(2)

However, a driver who is turning at an intersection with traffic arrows showing a green traffic arrow need not give way to an oncoming vehicle if the driver is turning in the direction indicated by the green traffic arrow.

Note—

Green traffic arrow is defined in the Dictionary.

Examples—
Example 1Giving way to a pedestrian on the road the driver is enteringExample 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.

Maximum penalty: 20 penalty units.

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.

  • (d)

    is of a robust and durable construction, capable of being readily erected to stand in an upright position and of remaining unaffected (to any material degree) by any reasonable force of wind or variation in weather conditions.

Note—

This definition is not uniform with the corresponding definition in the Dictionary of the Australian Road Rules. However, the Australian Road Rules allow another law of this jurisdiction to make provision for the approval of such portable warning triangles. Different definitions may apply in other Australian jurisdictions.

postal vehicle means a vehicle driven by a person who is:

  • (a)

    a postal worker, 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.

Note 3—

This definition is not uniform with the corresponding definition in the Dictionary of the Australian Road Rules. However, the Australian Road Rules allow another law of this jurisdiction to make provision for what is a postal vehicle for a provision of the Australian Road Rules. Different definitions may apply in other Australian jurisdictions.

postal worker means an employee of Australia Post or any other person who is engaged by Australia Post to deliver post.

Note—

This definition is not uniform with the corresponding definition in the Dictionary of the Australian Road Rules. However, the Australian Road Rules allow another law of this jurisdiction to make provision for who is a postal worker for a provision of the Australian Road Rules. Different definitions may apply in other Australian jurisdictions.

prime mover means a motor vehicle built to tow a semi-trailer.

Note 1—

Motor vehicle and semi-trailer are defined in this Dictionary.

Note 2—

This is an additional NSW definition. There is no corresponding definition in the Dictionary of the Australian Road Rules.

printed parking permit means a printed parking permit issued under clause 95 of the Road Transport (General) Regulation 2013.

Note—

This is an additional NSW definition. There is no corresponding definition in the Dictionary of the Australian Road Rules.

private hire vehicle has the same meaning as in the Passenger Transport Act 1990.

Note—

This is an additional NSW definition. There is no corresponding definition in the Dictionary of the Australian Road Rules.

provisional P1 licence has the same meaning as in the Road Transport (Driver Licensing) Regulation 2008.

Note—

This is an additional NSW definition. There is no corresponding definition in the Dictionary of the Australian Road Rules.

provisional P2 licence has the same meaning as in the Road Transport (Driver Licensing) Regulation 2008.

Note—

This is an additional NSW definition. There is no corresponding definition in the Dictionary of the Australian Road Rules.

public bus means a coach.

Note 1—

Coach is defined in the Act to mean a motor vehicle that is:

  • (a)

    constructed principally to carry persons, and

  • (b)

    equipped to seat more than 8 adult persons, and

  • (c)

    used to convey passengers for hire or reward or in the course of trade or business.

Note 2—

This definition is not uniform with the corresponding definition in the Dictionary of the Australian Road Rules. However, the Australian Road Rules allow another law of this jurisdiction to declare what vehicles are to be regarded as public buses. Different definitions may apply in other Australian jurisdictions.

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

public minibus

Note—

The definition of public minibus in the Dictionary to the Australian Road Rules has not been reproduced because the term is not used in this jurisdiction.

public passenger service has the same meaning as in the Passenger Transport Act 1990.

Note—

This is an additional NSW definition. There is no corresponding definition in the Dictionary of the Australian Road Rules.

public postbox means a postbox erected, maintained or used in or on any road by Australia Post.

Note—

There is no corresponding definition in the Dictionary of the Australian Road Rules. However, rule 199 (2) of the Australian Road Rules allows another law of this jurisdiction to make provision for the definition of a public postbox.

public utility service vehicle means a vehicle being used by a public authority or statutory body in connection with the supply of water, gas, electricity and the like or to remove garbage.

Note 1—

Vehicle is defined in rule 15.

Note 2—

This is an additional NSW definition. There is no corresponding definition in the Dictionary of the Australian Road Rules.

red B light means an illuminated red B.

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 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.

regular bus service has the same meaning as in the Passenger Transport Act 1990.

Note—

This is an additional NSW definition. There is no corresponding definition in the Dictionary of the Australian Road Rules.

relevant parking fee, in relation to the parking of a vehicle in a pay parking space, has the same meaning as in the Road Transport (General) Regulation 2013.

Note 1—

Park and pay parking space are defined in this Dictionary, and vehicle is defined in rule 15.

Note 2—

This is an additional NSW definition. There is no corresponding definition in the Dictionary of the Australian Road Rules.

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 train means a motor vehicle combination comprising:

  • (a)

    a hauling unit with two or more trailers or semi-trailers attached, or

  • (b)

    an articulated vehicle with one or more trailers or semi-trailers attached,

but does not include a motor vehicle combination longer than 53 metres that is carrying or comprises an indivisible load.

Note 1—

Articulated vehicle, hauling unit, motor vehicle combination, semi-trailer and trailer are defined in this Dictionary.

Note 2—

This is an additional NSW definition. There is no corresponding definition in the Dictionary of the Australian Road Rules.

road user—see rule 14.

roundabout—see rule 109.

safety zone—see rule 162.

school zone—see rule 23.

scooter

Note—

The definition of scooter in the Australian Road Rules has not been reproduced in these Rules because the rules relating to motorised scooters in the Australian Road Rules have not been reproduced in these Rules.

semi-trailer means a trailer (including a pole-type trailer) that has:

  • (a)

    one axle group or single axle towards the rear, and

  • (b)

    a means of attachment to a prime mover that would result in some of the load being imposed on the prime mover.

Note 1—

Axle group, prime mover, single axle and trailer are defined in this Dictionary.

Note 2—

This is an additional NSW definition. There is no corresponding definition in the Dictionary of the Australian Road Rules.

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.

sidecar means any car, box or other receptacle attached to the side of a motor bike and for the carriage of which a third wheel is provided.

Note 1—

Motor bike is defined in this Dictionary.

Note 2—

This is an additional NSW definition. There is no corresponding definition in the Dictionary of the Australian Road Rules.

single axle means one axle, or 2 axles the centrelines of which are less than 1 metre apart.

Note 1—

Centreline is defined in this Dictionary.

Note 2—

This is an additional NSW definition. There is no corresponding definition in the Dictionary of the Australian Road Rules.

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, but not by a median strip.

Note—

Median strip, painted island and traffic island are defined in this Dictionary, and vehicle is defined in rule 15.

special event parking area—see rule 205A–1.

Note—

This is an additional NSW definition. There is no corresponding definition in the Dictionary of the Australian Road Rules.

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.

station wagon has the same meaning as in the Road Transport (Vehicle Registration) Regulation 2007.

Note—

This is an additional NSW definition. There is no corresponding definition in the Dictionary of the Australian Road Rules.

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, a keep clear marking or a bicycle storage area for hook turns.

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.

tandem axle group means a combination of 2 axles, the centrelines of which are not less than 1 metre and not more than 2 metres apart.

Note 1—

Centreline is defined in this Dictionary.

Note 2—

This is an additional NSW definition. There is no corresponding definition in the Dictionary of the Australian Road Rules.

T-intersection means an intersection, other than a roundabout, 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.

T-Way lane—see rule 157–1.

Note—

This is an additional NSW definition. There is no corresponding definition in the Dictionary of the Australian Road Rules.

taxi means a motor vehicle (other than a bus) licensed as a taxi-cab under the Passenger Transport Act 1990 and includes (except in rule 182) a private hire vehicle.

Note 1—

Bus, motor vehicle and private hire vehicle are defined in this Dictionary.

Note 2—

This definition is not uniform with the corresponding definition in the Dictionary of the Australian Road Rules. However, the Australian Road Rules allow another law of this jurisdiction to declare when a vehicle is a taxi for the purposes of the Australian Road Rules. Different definitions may apply in other Australian jurisdictions.

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.

the Act means the Road Transport Act 2013.

Note—

This is an additional NSW definition. There is no corresponding definition in the Dictionary of the Australian Road Rules.

third edition ADR has the same meaning as in the Road Transport (Vehicle Registration) Regulation 2007.

Note—

This is an additional NSW definition. There is no corresponding definition in the Dictionary of the Australian Road Rules.

this jurisdiction means New South Wales.

Note—

This is an additional NSW definition. There is no corresponding definition in the Dictionary of the Australian Road Rules.

ticket parking area—see rule 207–3.

Note—

This is an additional NSW definition. There is no corresponding definition in the Dictionary of the Australian Road Rules.

ticket parking space—see rule 207–4.

Note—

This is an additional NSW definition. There is no corresponding definition in the Dictionary of the Australian Road Rules.

ticket-operated loading zone—see rule 179–1.

Note—

This is an additional NSW definition. There is no corresponding definition in the Dictionary of the Australian Road Rules.

tow truck has the same meaning as in the Road Transport (Vehicle Registration) Regulation 2007.

Note—

This is an additional NSW definition. There is no corresponding definition in the Dictionary of the Australian Road Rules.

towing attachment means a device fitted to a vehicle to which the drawbar of a trailer may be attached.

Note 1—

Drawbar is defined in this Dictionary, and vehicle is defined in rule 15.

Note 2—

This is an additional NSW definition. There is no corresponding definition in the Dictionary of the Australian Road Rules.

tractor means any motor vehicle constructed principally for the purpose of supplying motive power for machinery or of hauling any vehicle, but that is not capable of carrying any loading (other than tools, spare parts, fuel, water, oil, or other accessories necessary for use in connection with the vehicle) or any part of the weight of a vehicle being drawn or its loading.

Note 1—

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

Note 2—

This definition is not uniform with the corresponding definition in the Dictionary of the Australian Road Rules. Different definitions may apply in other Australian jurisdictions.

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 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,

  • (d)

    an authorised T-Way vehicle label or plate.

Note 1—

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

Note 2—

This definition is not uniform with the corresponding definition in the Dictionary to the Australian Road Rules. This definition contains an additional reference to an authorised T-Way vehicle label or plate. Different definitions may apply in other Australian jurisdictions.

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.

Note—

Light rail vehicle is defined in the Act.

tram lane—see rule 155.

tram recovery vehicle means a vehicle used by a tram operator to access and recover disabled trams for which the tram operator is responsible.

tram stop means a place on a road at which there is a sign indicating that trams will stop to enable people to get on or off.

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

tramway—see rule 155A.

transit lane—see rule 156.

transport district has the same meaning as in the Transport Administration Act 1988.

Note—

This is an additional NSW definition. There is no corresponding definition in the Dictionary of the Australian Road Rules.

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.

tri-axle group means a combination of 3 axles the centrelines of the extreme axles of which are not less than 2 metres and not more than 3.2 metres apart.

Note 1—

Centreline is defined in this Dictionary.

Note 2—

This is an additional NSW definition. There is no corresponding definition in the Dictionary of the Australian Road Rules.

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, motor vehicle, tram and tractor are defined in this Dictionary, and GVM is defined in the Act.

truck lane—see rule 157.

truck parking area means an area with:

  • (a)

    a permissive parking sign on each road into the area on which appears the words “Truck parking area only”, and

  • (b)

    a permissive parking sign on each road out of the area that indicates the end of the truck parking area.

Note 1—

For the permitted version of a permissive parking sign referred to in this definition—see the diagrams in Schedule 3.

Note 2—

This is an additional NSW definition. There is no corresponding definition in the Dictionary of the Australian Road Rules.

truck zone—see rule 180.

turn line means a road marking, at an intersection, consisting of a line (whether broken or continuous) that is designed to indicate how a turn is to be made at the intersection.

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, or

  • (c)

    a U-turn permitted sign or U-turn traffic lane arrows apply.

Note—

Left traffic lane arrows, marked lane , right traffic lane arrows, U-turn and U-turn 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 steer axle group means a tandem axle group consisting of 2 single-tyred axles connected to the same steering system, that are fitted to a rigid vehicle or a prime mover.

Note 1—

Tandem axle group and prime mover are defined in this Dictionary.

Note 2—

This is an additional NSW definition. There is no corresponding definition in the Dictionary of the Australian Road Rules.

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.

U-turn traffic lane arrows means traffic lane arrows applying to a marked lane that indicate only a U-turn direction.

Note—

U-turn is defined in the Dictionary.

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, scooter, unicycle or similar wheeled device, but

  • (b)

    does not include a golf buggy, pram, stroller or trolley, a motor-assisted device (whether or not the motor is operating), or a bicycle, wheelchair or wheeled toy.

Note 1—

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

Note 2—

This definition is not uniform with the corresponding definition in the Dictionary of the Australian Road Rules because the rules relating to motorised scooters in the Australian Road Rules have not been reproduced in these Rules. Different definitions may apply in other Australian jurisdictions.

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.

Note—

This definition is not uniform with the corresponding definition in the Dictionary of the Australian Road Rules because the rules relating to motorised scooters in the Australian Road Rules have not been reproduced in these Rules. Different definitions may apply in other Australian jurisdictions.

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.

window, in relation to a vehicle, includes any sunroof fitted to the vehicle.

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.

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