Motoring infringements

A summary of common offences and the associated penalties can be found in appendix three here (PDF) or on the DPI web site.

Demerit points are doubled on long weekends and other prescribed holiday periods for speeding, drink driving, not wearing a seatbelt and riding in an open load space.

Drink driving and speeding are very dangerous and are serious offences.

Speeding by 45 km/h or more constitutes reckless driving.

For a first offence the court can impose a maximum fine of $1000 or imprisonment for 9 months.

Licence suspension of at least 6 months is mandatory.

Penalties are higher for repeat offences.

Vehicle could be impounded if you are caught exceeding the speed limit by 45 km/h or more.

Repeated drink driving offences can lead to a life suspension of your licence.

Exceeding the blood alcohol limit by even small amounts incurs a $100 fine and from 3-5 demerit points.

Full details of all traffic offences and penalties are contained in the Road Traffic Code 2000. Copies can be viewed at the Library and Information Service of Western Australia and are available for purchase from the State Law Publisher, 10 William Street, Perth WA 6000 or online at www.slp.wa.gov.au.

The above information is a guide only and should not be relied on for legal purposes.

This information is correct as supplied by the Department of Planning and Infrastructure, 20 February 2009.