Dangerous driving is a criminal offence, and a conviction takes your licence. How serious the charge is depends on the circumstances alleged. Talk to Joseph Rahim about the charge you are facing.
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Dangerous operation of a motor vehicle is an offence under the Criminal Code Act 1899 (Qld). The prosecution has to prove you were operating the vehicle, that the driving was dangerous, and that it happened in a place. It is usually dealt with in the Magistrates Court; the most serious versions go to a higher court.
Driving at a speed or in a way that is dangerous to the public, having regard to all the circumstances. It is judged objectively, and it takes a serious breach of the proper management of the vehicle. A mere lapse of care is not enough.
“Operating” covers more than speed: keeping a lookout, turning, slowing and stopping are all part of it.
From 1 March 2027. A new Queensland law replaces this offence with a new offence of driving a motor vehicle dangerously, with a wider list of aggravating circumstances, including committing a police evasion offence and driving while disqualified or suspended. Offences committed before that date are still dealt with under the existing law. If your driving happened close to that date, ask which law applies to you.
Pick the one closest to your situation and a chat opens with it already said. No forms, and you can call instead at any time.
This is often the first thing people ask about, and the rules leave less room than many expect.
Because of this, how the charge is defended and what is put to the court about you both carry a lot of weight.
The two are often confused, and the difference is significant.
No particular state of mind is needed. The driving is judged objectively, so what you intended does not decide whether it was dangerous.
The offence applies in any place, not just on a road. The only exception is a place lawfully used, under a licence, for racing or testing with other traffic excluded.
Joseph Rahim, Principal. LLB (First Class Honours), Grad Dip LP. Member, Queensland Law Society. About Joseph
When you call Coral Coast Law, you speak with Joseph Rahim, and he handles your matter himself.
If you are convicted, yes. Disqualification follows the conviction automatically.
Queensland Government guidance does not provide one for this disqualification, and a dangerous driving conviction rules you out of a work licence for five years.
No. It can happen in any place, apart from a licensed racing or testing venue with other traffic excluded.
No. The driving is judged objectively, so no particular intention has to be proved.
Yes. It is an offence under the Criminal Code, usually dealt with in the Magistrates Court.
Yes. It is free, confidential and comes with no obligation.
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The sooner you get advice, the more can be done. Tell Joseph what has happened and find out exactly where you stand, with no cost and no pressure.
0447 028 080This page is general information about Queensland law. It is not legal advice. Every matter turns on its own facts, so speak with us about yours.
