Before taking a seat behind the wheel, it is time to brush-up on the old road rules that have become a hazy memory. 

When it comes to eating while driving or donning a pair of thongs, Horsham Highway Patrol Acting Sergeant Heath Martin said motorists are not breaking any road rule. 

But, he said motorists can be prosecuted if it leads to negligent driving. 

“There is no specific law against eating while driving or wearing thongs. But, if the driver does not have proper control of the vehicle, it could be deemed to be careless driving and they can be fined,” he said.

Acting Sergeant Martin also tried to clear up confusion surrounding slowing down for emergency vehicles.

For instance, drivers must safely slow to 40 kilometres an hour when passing a stationary or slow-moving emergency vehicle that has flashing lights or a siren sounding. 

Despite the new rule in place since July 1, 2017, Acting Sergeant Martin said motorists were failing to slow down. 

Acting Sergeant Martin said the penalty was a $282 fine for failing to slow down when passing a Victoria Police, Ambulance Victoria, Metropolitan Fire Brigade, County Fire Authority and State Emergency Service vehicles.with flashing lights.

The rule also applied to VicRoads Transport Safety Service vehicles with magenta flashing lights. 

Another road rule that motorists should keep in mind is driving in the correct lane. 

“Drivers must keep left unless overtaking or if there is some obstruction. If the speed limit is over 80 kilometres an hour motorists must keep to the left lane,” he said. 

Failing to notify the state government about a driver’s change of address or name also invites a fine. 

“It is required to notify VicRoads within 14 days of the change,” Acting Sergeant Martin said. “We get quite a few people who do this for whatever reason. It is a simple process and a lot of people ignore it.” 

Acting Sergeant Martin said horns could only be used to sound a warning. Motorists caught using their horns inappropriately such as bidding farewell could earn themselves a fine. 

Acting Sergeant Martin said motorists can also be fined if they leave their car unlocked and unattended. 

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