[Brad Lockyer]

Insurance firm Budget Direct is warning Aussie motorists to be aware of a little-known rule that is costing drivers $337.

The hefty fine is apparently being dished out to drivers who rest their elbows on the open windows of their car doors, or extend their hand out an open window to wave. The rule applies to passengers as well.

“Even winding down the window and stretching your arm outside to cool down could also get you in trouble,” the insurer told The Australian.

“According to all state and territories’ driving regulations, it is illegal for any part of your body to be outside a moving vehicle at any time.”

Do you think this rule seems reasonable?

[allan j goodwin]

no

[Gordon Nussey]

Whether you think this rule is reasonable or not, it’s not a new or obscure rule.
It’s been in effect in South Australia since the mid 60’s.

[BigBadOzDave]

I was living in NSW when it was introduced there in the 1960s (I think) … in those days, it was not uncommon to see young blokes getting around with only one arm, the other having been taken off in a road accident when they had it hanging out the window. So, yes, I agreed with the rule then, and I still agree with it now.

[Ron]

In Victoria, this rule applies to body parts extending beyound yhe vehicles bodywork, not just the window frame. This allowed onr to rest ones right elbow on the window sill with the right hand on the wheel. By having both hans on the wheel you were considered to be “in control”. This statement is the result of successfuly challenging a fine.

[Author]

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