Outdated fines in modern times

The phrase “Road Rules” generally makes us think of things like following speed limits, giving way and wearing a seat belt. But here in Australia, along with all the standard driving procedures, we have a few hilarious extras that aren't so well known – and that’s because they haven’t been updated since colonial times.

If you’re busting, there’s an old law that supposedly allows you to pull over and take a leak, but, take note, only specifically on the rear left tyre. This road rule is said to be for everywhere in Australia, however public urination is also a current offence, so as tempting as it may be on a full bladder, we’re betting the best bet is not to test it!

There’s actually a law that says it’s illegal to carry an animal between the rider and the handlebars of a motorbike. However, in Queensland you can ride a motorbike with an animal on your lap, only for less than 500m, if it is being carried for the purpose of farming activity. 

Horse riding isn’t a common mode of transport anymore, but up until 1999, it was illegal in NSW to ride a horse past a place of worship on a Sunday at a fast pace. No gallops or dramatic entrances allowed. One had to stick to a walking pace or you could be fined $44, which was probably a good deterrent back in the day!

Back in the day if you caught a taxi in the sunshine state, by law, it had to have a hay bale in the boot. A remnant from the days of horse-drawn carriages, this is one road rule that is well and truly obsolete!

Dating back to the Great Depression era, it’s illegal in Western Australia to carry over 50kg of potatoes in your car unless you work for a “potato corporation”. Don’t believe us? Check out section 22 of the Marketing of Potatoes Act 1946!  While you’re unlikely to be caught out by this law, the fine for this offence is a whopping $2,000! 

This rule from the old days is still fairly applicable. If you do happen to see someone you know walking on the road, don’t use your horn to say hey, especially if you’re in NSW, where the fine gets up to nearly $300! The only reason you can legally use your horn is to warn another vehicle or animal that you’re approaching. It’s thought to be too distracting and disruptive to horses if horns are used for anything other than a ‘watch out’. Here’s an extensive list of other penalties you can get in different states for honking your horn the wrong way.

We hope you found these strange, specific and outdated laws of the land entertaining and perhaps useful for dinner party conversation or your next trivia night. Just remember, some do come with very real and modern fines, so uh, best not to test the theory. Enjoy, stay safe and happy travels!