Speed Limits & Alcohol/Drug Laws Flashcards

What is the speed limit for heavy vehicles over 3,500 kg on NZ open roads?

Answer: 90 km/h

Heavy motor vehicles with a gross vehicle mass over 3,500 kg have a maximum speed limit of 90 km/h on NZ open roads, even when the posted limit is 100 km/h. This accounts for their longer stopping distances.

A learner driver in NZ has a blood alcohol reading of 0.01g/100ml. Is this legal?

Answer: No — learner drivers must have zero blood alcohol

Learner drivers in New Zealand fall under the under-20 zero alcohol rule if they are under 20, or must still comply with a zero limit as part of their licence conditions. Any alcohol is prohibited for learner drivers regardless of age in most circumstances.

What is the minimum breath alcohol level at which a NZ driver over 20 years old commits an infringement?

Answer: More than 250 micrograms of alcohol per litre of breath

The breath alcohol limit for drivers aged 20 and over in NZ is 250 micrograms per litre of breath. Exceeding this is an offence. This corresponds to the blood limit of 50mg per 100ml of blood.

What is the speed limit around a school bus that has stopped to pick up or drop off children in a 50 km/h zone?

Answer: 20 km/h

When passing a school bus that has stopped to pick up or drop off children with its hazard lights on, drivers must slow to 20 km/h. This special rule protects children who may be crossing the road.

Can a driver in NZ be convicted of drink driving if they are below the legal alcohol limit but their driving is impaired?

Answer: Yes — impairment-based charges can apply even below the legal limit

In NZ, a driver can be charged with driving while impaired even if their blood or breath alcohol reading is below the legal limit. Impairment is assessed based on driving behaviour and field sobriety tests.

What is the posted speed limit near most NZ road works where workers are present?

Answer: 30 km/h or as posted on the temporary signs

In NZ road works zones where workers are present, temporary speed limits are posted, often as low as 30 km/h. These must be observed at all times while the signs are in place, even if no workers are immediately visible.