Penalties for minor offenses like ticket camera violations and seatbelt regulation breaches have been increased. Not wearing a seatbelt can now cost $500 and violating a ticket camera during a red light $700. Fines in some places are even doubled during holidays and vacation periods. Stopping such behavior is the goal of such doubled fines and increased demerit points.
Emphasis on At-Risk Road Users
All drivers must now slow down to 25 km/h when approaching any vehicle that is stopped or is providing roadside assistance or has its emergency flashing lights. This is to better safeguard those working in dangerous roadside situations. The child seat guidelines and the seatbelt use mandates have been consolidated and unified with the heavier fines for the improper use of child seats and seatbelt use now aimed at enforcement of these unified guidelines.
Mandatory Medical Testing for Older Drivers
Drivers over 70 and in some states over 75 must complete routine health assessments to keep their licenses. This is in answer to concerns on the safety of elders driving and their driving ability. More frequent health assessments along with practical driving tests and in some situations the use of senior driver badges have become part of the driving license process.
Enforcement and Technology
One of the highlights of the 2025 changes includes the further use of Artificial Intelligence traffic cameras which will detect offences of using phones, running red traffic lights, and not wearing seatbelts. These systems are now deployed across the whole country and are much more effective and advanced at detecting penalties, making it increasingly harder for drivers to avoid the penalties.
Data Table: Key Penalties in 2025
| Offence | Old Fine | New Fine (2025) | Demerit Points |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mobile Phone Use | $500 | $750 | 6 |
| Speeding in School Zones | $400 | $600 | 5 |
| Red-Light Camera | $450 | $700 | 5 |
| Seatbelt Offence | $350 | $500 | 4 |
| 45+ km/h Over Limit | $900 | $1,000+ | License loss |
Adapting for the Future
These changes to the road law are quite considerable, and perhaps seem strict. 2025 aims to reduce the number of road incidents, and promote the safer use of the roads, and aim for consistency across the states. These changes will further encourage drivers to adapt to the changes, and more modern technology to help authorities with law enforcement will be integrated. Therefore, it is very important for drivers to be cautious, informed, and legally compliant.
FAQs
Q: What are the major traffic rule changes in 2025?
A: 2025 Enacts a National AI Traffic Camera System, which means tougher penalties and greater monitoring for phone use, speeding, red lights, seatbelt offences.
Q: Are there special rules for older drivers?
A: Yes, drivers beyond the ages of 70 and 75 are required to do mandatory health assessments to keep their license.
Q: When did these new rules take effect?
A: These changes took effect beginning September and October 2025.
