Dangerous and Illegal Driving Habits to Avoid in Queensland 

Even everyday habits behind the wheel can lead to fines—or far worse. 

Changing a song, grabbing a bite to eat, or sipping your morning coffee might seem harmless when driving. But these small distractions can quickly become dangerous—and even deadly. At TPIL Lawyers, we’ve seen the real-world consequences of poor driving decisions across Queensland. 

Below are seven common but risky driving habits to avoid—and how they may affect your safety and your legal standing. 

1. Using a Mobile Phone While Driving

Using a mobile phone while driving is one of the most dangerous habits on the road. It impairs your attention visually, physically, and mentally—and increases your risk of a crash by four times. 

Queensland Rules: 

P1 (Red P) licence holders: Cannot use a mobile phone in any way, including on loudspeaker, Bluetooth or in a mount. 

P2 and Open licence holders: May use a phone only if it’s mounted and operated completely hands-free. 

Tip: Activate ‘Do Not Disturb While Driving’ mode or place your phone out of reach before hitting the road. 

2. Wearing a Seatbelt Incorrectly

Wearing your seatbelt the wrong way—such as placing it under your arm or behind your back—significantly reduces its ability to protect you in a crash. It can also result in a fine. 

The belt should sit snugly across your chest and low across your hips. Don’t prioritise comfort over safety. 

3. Smoking in the Car

Lighting a cigarette while driving can be incredibly distracting and dangerous. It’s also illegal to smoke in a vehicle with a child under 16 anywhere in Australia, including Queensland.  

Throwing a lit cigarette out the window could earn you a heavy fine and, in dry conditions, even start a bushfire. Always extinguish and dispose of cigarettes safely. 

4. Eating While Driving

Eating on the go may save time, but it can reduce your control of the vehicle and your reaction time. Even holding a burger or wiping your hands can divert your focus long enough to cause an accident. 

It’s safer to stop and eat rather than risk one-handed driving. Use the break to stretch and reset, especially on long trips.

5. Drinking Coffee While Driving

A hot drink might keep you alert—but it can also become a hazard. Spilling hot coffee on yourself, fumbling for a cup, or reaching across the car creates unnecessary distractions. 

Use a secure travel mug with a lid and keep both hands on the wheel whenever possible. 

6. Distractions from Children or Devices

Keeping children occupied with devices during a drive is a modern convenience—but if their screen or sound becomes a distraction to you, it’s a road risk. 

Position screens so they’re not visible to the driver, and use headphones to keep the sound contained to the back seat.

7. Driving in Unsafe Footwear

While it’s not illegal to drive barefoot or in thongs or heels, it can be dangerous. Loose or slippery shoes can get caught under pedals or slip at the wrong moment. 

Choose footwear that’s secure and provides good grip—especially for longer drives or in heavy traffic. 

📞 Contact the TPIL Lawyers Team for expert legal advice or call us on 1800 958 498

We’re here to help you get your life back on track.