There’s a little known law that was introduced in January 2010 but it seems Victorian drivers are none the wiser. In fact, since the law was introduced, 1765 Victorian motorists have been fined for smoking in a car carrying a child.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
Under the law, smoking is banned in motor vehicles with children under 18, whether the window is down or not.
‘This ban includes whether the car is moving or not, whether the windows are open or closed and whether the roof is down or not.’ Health Victoria
The maximum penalty for an individual breaking the law is five penalty units with an on the spot fine of two penalty units ($311). But is it making a difference?
This year the Government is cracking down on dangerous and reckless driving and smoking in the car can be a contributor. Fines are up to $1860 as shown in this video.
Disrespectful driving includes failure to indicate, swerving across the road, cruising with high beams and fog lights on, driving with an arm out of the window, increasing speed when being overtaken and slamming brakes just before turning.
Some fed-up motorists are taking to social media to shame selfish and reckless drivers. Smokers beware.