Google search results displayed false information from an AI website about drivers risking a $250 fine for not keeping their headlights on at all times
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The New South Wales transport department has warned the rise of AI is increasing misinformation about road rules, after false claims that drivers must legally keep their headlights on at all times spread online.
When Australians searched for “Australian road rules for headlights”, Google summarised – and linked to – a site falsely claiming that drivers will need to keep headlights on at all times or face a $250 fine from 10 November.
Transport for NSW said the claim – which appeared under the “People also ask” option – was one of several pieces of misinformation that have been circulating online about Australian road rules. Some falsely claim that stricter requirements for older drivers had been introduced, and fines increased for things like smoking while driving.
The easily identifiable issue with each claim is that each individual state or territory sets its own road rules – rather than Australia having a nationwide regime.
The NSW transport department’s secretary, Josh Murray, said the rise of AI can generate misinformation online.
“We’ve seen that recently with claims curfews were to be introduced for drivers over 60 in NSW and large fine increases for anyone caught breaking our road rules – neither true or remotely accurate,” he said.
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