Is it illegal to drive with van doors open?

Yes, driving with van doors open, or with your doors open in any other kind of car, is illegal because it's a hazard to others on the road.

So even if you want to risk it, perhaps transporting an oversize load with some open doors and ropes, be careful getting on the road with your doors open because it's both unsafe and illegal. Read on for some state-by-state guidance on the laws, but remember that for the most up-to-date information you should always consult your relevant road authority directly.

New South Wales Roads & Maritime Services and the Australian Capital Territory government each has road safety rules information online which includes a similar verdict on open doors. If you cause hazard to a person or vehicle by having your door open, you’re looking at a possible $330 fine in NSW and $193 in the ACT. A similar policy applies in Victoria, according to VicRoads information on fines and penalties. In Vic, if you cause hazard to a person or a vehicle because of an open door you could cop a $396 fine.

Likewise, the Tasmanian Transport’s traffic offences list makes it pretty clear that causing hazard by opening or leaving open a door will result in a $159 fine. Although we couldn’t find the exact penalty amount, the South Australian government’s My Licence website clearly states that opening a door while a car is in motion, or driving with doors open, is considered a safety hazard and is also illegal in SA.

As a general guide, driving with the doors open — whether you’re driving a van or any kind of vehicle —  will almost definitely affect your insurance coverage.

Similarly, we couldn’t find the penalty amount for Queenslanders but, according to road regulations that have been in effect since 2009, the same rules apply: it’s illegal to cause a hazard to another person by opening a door or leaving a door open while driving. According to Western Australia’s Road Traffic Code 2000 and the Northern Territory government’s Road Users’ Handbook the same rule applies on WA and NT roads.

You should always consult your specific insurance agreement for insurance advice, but as a general guide, driving with the doors open — whether you’re driving a van or any kind of vehicle —  will almost definitely affect your insurance coverage. Any indication that you’ve been driving a car in a manner that is hazardous and illegal can void most kinds of insurance coverage.

This article is not intended as legal advice. You should check with your local road authority to verify the information written here is suitable to your situation before driving in this manner.

Have you ever driven with your van doors open? Tell us in the comments below.