A Queensland man has been fined $1,104 and issued three demerit points after allegedly buttering a bagel with one hand while steering his vehicle with his knees in busy traffic. The 29-year-old Glenvale man was observed by police driving along a street in Newtown, Toowoomba, under these conditions.
While no specific law prohibits eating while driving, motorists can be penalized if their actions impair their ability to maintain control of the vehicle or concentrate on the road. The vehicle was also found to be unregistered.
When questioned by the officer, the man reportedly stated, "I know that was stupid, but I was hungry. Have been working since morning." The officer responded, "I can't understand how you thought that would be a great idea in all that traffic."
Darling Downs District Officer Acting Superintendent Kelly Hanlen emphasized that driving requires a driver's full attention. "Taking your hands and focus away from the task of driving, even for something as seemingly harmless like preparing food, can have serious consequences," Hanlen said. "I want to remind motorists there is no meal, message or other distraction worth risking your safety or the safety of other road users."
In Queensland, driving without due care and attention can result in a maximum fine of $690 and three demerit points. Other states have varying penalties for distracted driving. In New South Wales, the penalty is a $562 fine and three demerit points. In Victoria, it can incur a five demerit point penalty. In South Australia, the fine is $236. In Western Australia, the infringement penalty is $300 with three demerit points, and in the Australian Capital Territory, distracted drivers could face a $510 fine. Tasmania imposes one demerit point for such offenses.