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Tyre showing wear with a bald tread pattern

What's The Fine For Having Bald Tyres In Australia?

Do you check your tyres regularly? Are you sure they still have enough tread depth to keep you safe?

Driving on bald tyres can be a risky proposition that not only endangers your safety but also leaves you liable for fines.

Let’s learn about the legal consequences and risks of driving with worn-out tyres.

Fines For Driving On Bald Tyres

The fine for driving on bald tyres in Australia depends on where you are caught.

For instance, in Queensland, the penalties are quite clear. If you’re found with just one worn tyre, you could be slapped with an on-the-spot fine of $110 and receive one demerit point.

However, if all your tyres are bald and unsafe, the fine can escalate to a whopping $220, along with three demerit points.

Why Is It Dangerous To Drive On Bald Tyres

Driving on bald tyres is a risky idea. When your tyres are worn out, they lose their ability to grip the road properly, especially in wet or slippery conditions.

This lack of traction can lead to longer braking distances and a higher likelihood of losing control of your vehicle.

In essence, bald tyres significantly increase the chance of accidents, putting not only your life at risk but also the lives of others on the road.

How To Avoid Getting A Fine

Regular Inspections

Make it a habit to inspect your tyres at least once a month. Look for signs of wear and tear, and check the tread depth. In Australia, the legal minimum tread depth is generally 1.5 millimetres.

Rotation

Rotate your tyres as recommended in your vehicle’s manual. This helps ensure uneven wear across all tyres.

Proper Inflation

Maintain the correct tyre pressure. Under-inflated or over-inflated tyres wear out faster and can be dangerous.

Alignment

If your vehicle’s wheels are not properly aligned, it can lead to uneven tyre wear. Regular wheel alignments can prevent this issue.

Conclusion

The fine for driving on bald tyres is a penalty you’ll want to avoid. Beyond the financial hit, the safety risks associated with bald tyres are simply not worth it.

Regular tyre maintenance is the key to ensuring your safety on the road and keeping those fines at bay.

Louis from Tyre Geek

Louis

I'm Louis, an engineer passionate about helping Australians choose better tyres for their vehicles!