Sustained Loss of Traction

Ever heard screeching tires and seen a cloud of smoke? That could be "sustained loss of traction," also known as burnouts or drifting. It's a serious traffic offence that can lead to hefty fines, demerit points, and even license disqualification. Colin Mitchell is a skilled traffic lawyer here to help you understand the legalities of sustained loss of traction and fight unfair charges.

What is Sustained Loss of Traction?

The Land Transport Act 1998 defines sustained loss of traction as operating a vehicle in a manner that causes the wheels to lose grip on the road for a prolonged period. This typically involves actions like:

• Burnouts: Deliberately spinning the tires to create smoke and leave skid marks.
• Drifting: Intentionally causing the car to lose traction while cornering.
• Spinning Out: Losing control due to excessive speed or aggressive manoeuvring.

Why is Sustained Loss of Traction Illegal?

Sustained loss of traction creates a dangerous situation for yourself and other road users. Here's why it's illegal:

• Loss of Control: Spinning tires or drifting significantly reduces your ability to control the vehicle, increasing the risk of accidents.
• Unpredictable Behaviour: Erratic movements from burnouts or drifting can surprise other drivers and lead to collisions.
• Damage to Roads: Skid marks and burnouts damage road surfaces, impacting safety and requiring repairs.
• Noise Pollution: The screeching tires and loud engines associated with these actions create unnecessary noise pollution.

Don't Risk the Consequences

A sustained loss of traction charge can significantly impact your driving privileges. Colin Mitchell can help you fight the charges, protect your licence, and minimise the consequences.