Failing to Stop (Evading Police)

If you are directed by a police officer to stop your vehicle, you must do so as soon as reasonably practical. It is an offence to evade police by failing to stop your motor vehicle.

There are significant penalties for failing to stop, which include a large fine or period of imprisonment and a period of disqualification.

Penalties for failing to stop

The penalties for failing to stop a motor vehicle are perhaps the harshest penalties available for traffic offences in Queensland.

There are both minimum and maximum penalties for failing to stop a motor vehicle. The current prescribed penalty unit value for each can be found on the Queensland Courts website.

Disqualification

You will also be subject to a mandatory disqualification if you are convicted of this offence.

You will be unable to hold or obtain a Queensland driver’s licence for a period of 2 years. This period is mandatory, and therefore the Court must impose this disqualification if you are convicted of this offence.

It is an offence to drive while disqualified. The penalties include a further disqualification for a lengthy period (between 2 and 5 years, as decided by the Court), and a significant fine or period of imprisonment.

I have been charged with failing to stop. Do I need to see a solicitor?

You should seek legal advice if you are charged with failing to stop. The penalties are significant, and there is a risk you could spend time in custody as a result of this offence. It is important that you properly understand the charge, and any available defences, as soon as possible.

Please do not hesitate to contact our office on (07) 4963 2000 or via the contact form below should you have any queries.