Australian motorists are being warned about a hefty fine that could hit unsuspecting coffee drinkers on the road. Under current traffic regulations, drivers caught sipping a coffee while driving risk penalties of up to $678 and the loss of several demerit points. While many commuters see their morning takeaway coffee as part of their daily routine, authorities say it could amount to distracted driving.
The law and distracted driving
The law does not explicitly single out coffee cups or takeaway drinks. Instead, the offence falls under distracted driving or not having proper control of the vehicle. Each state and territory enforces its own version of these rules, but the principle is the same: anything that interferes with a driver’s ability to steer, react, or maintain safe control of the vehicle can result in a fine.
The New South Wales Centre for Road Safety, for example, defines proper control as having “both hands positioned to control the steering wheel when driving in normal traffic conditions.” Picking up a cup, especially while navigating traffic or turning, may be interpreted as failing to maintain control. In Queensland, police have also issued warnings that balancing food or drinks can qualify as an offence if it distracts a driver.
Why coffee is a risk
Road safety experts argue that even a brief distraction — such as taking a sip from a steaming hot coffee while driving — creates risk. A moment of inattention, whether due to fumbling with a lid or reacting to a spill, could cause a vehicle to swerve out of its lane or miss a hazard ahead.
Authorities also note that managing coffee while trying to operate a vehicle can reduce reaction times by crucial seconds. A spill can startle a driver, leading to dangerous overcorrection on the road.
“Anything that diverts your focus from the road increases the chance of a crash,” a Transport for NSW spokesperson said. “Drivers may underestimate how much something simple, like a takeaway cup, can compromise their control behind the wheel.”
Public reaction: surprise and frustration
For many Australians, the fine comes as an unwelcome shock. Coffee stops are ingrained in the morning routine, especially in commuter-heavy cities like Sydney and Melbourne where café culture thrives. Social media reactions highlight a mix of disbelief and annoyance from drivers who feel the rule goes too far.
“I get my cappuccino every morning on the way to work — it’s part of life here,” one Melbourne driver wrote on a community forum. “I didn’t realise it could cost me nearly $700 just for taking a sip.”
Others believe the rule, while strict, reflects a growing push by authorities toward eliminating distractions similar to mobile phone use while driving. “If it makes the roads safer and prevents accidents, then yes, I’ll wait until I park before I drink my coffee,” another motorist commented.
Enforcement and penalties
Police emphasise that not every driver holding a coffee will automatically face a penalty. Officers use discretion, focusing on whether the behaviour demonstrably affected a driver’s control of the vehicle. However, if a driver is spotted drifting lanes, driving erratically, or clearly distracted with a hot drink in hand, the fine can apply.
The $678 penalty is significant not only for its financial impact but also for the demerit points attached, which could affect a driver’s licence status — particularly for provisional drivers and those close to their limits.
Drivers urged to think twice
Authorities are now urging drivers to rethink their coffee habits. They recommend finishing drinks before starting the engine, or securely parking before reaching for caffeine. Many service stations and convenience outlets already encourage motorists to take a moment’s break, highlighting both safety and comfort.
Ultimately, the fine is a reminder that distracted driving covers more than just phones — everyday habits like eating and drinking also fall within the scope of safety laws. As Australian roads grow more congested, authorities argue that every second of attention counts.
