Special range drink driving applies to certain licence categories that must maintain a zero-alcohol limit, such as professional drivers or those under interlock orders.
Many people are surprised to learn that even a reading of 0.02 can lead to a serious offence.
This leads to the common question: “Why is special range treated so harshly?”
What Counts as Special Range PCA?
Special range applies when your BAC is 0.02 to 0.049, and you are:
- A learner or provisional driver, or
- A driver subject to zero-alcohol conditions (e.g., interlock participants)
- A professional driver, under certain circumstances
Because these drivers must adhere to higher standards, courts and police take even small readings seriously.
Immediate Licence Suspension
As with other PCA offences, police may:
- Suspend your licence immediately
- Issue a court attendance notice
This can be devastating for drivers who rely on their vehicle for work.
Penalties You May Face
Penalties can include:
- Fines of up to $2,200
- A criminal conviction
- Licence disqualification
- Potential impact on employment
- Insurance complications
If you were driving a heavy vehicle or transporting passengers, penalties may be more severe.
Why Is It Treated Seriously?
Because you are in a category where zero alcohol is expected, the law assumes:
- Higher responsibility
- Greater risk to public safety
- Need for strict compliance
Can You Avoid a Conviction?
Yes, in some circumstances.
Strong submissions, character evidence, and proactive steps, such as completing a traffic offender program, can improve your outcome.
If you’ve been charged with special-range drink driving, contact us today for a free initial consultation.