MOTORING NEWS - As a regular driver, one is generally aware of what is and isn't permitted while driving on South African roads.
Keeping the vehicle on the left side of the road, stopping at red traffic lights, driving within the speed limit and keeping the driver's licence at hand at all times are some of the more general rules drivers need to abide by.
Most driving rules are based on common sense. But with many new laws coming into effect and older regulations that are still misunderstood, one may unknowingly cross the line several times without realising it.
Vehicle insurer Hippo have supplied information on five traffic offences that could land you in hot water with the law.
Warning others of roadblocks
Police could charge drivers who alert fellow motorists about roadblocks by flashing their lights or posting warning messages on social media. "We frown upon the practice of warning other motorists about roadblocks. By doing that, you might be warning a wanted criminal, helping them evade the long arm of the law," the Road Traffic Management Centre (RTMC) says.
Smoking while transporting children
Regularly lighting up in the presence of children while driving is an offence. Section 2(1)(a)(iii) of the Tobacco Products Control Act of 1993, states: "No person may smoke any tobacco product in any motor vehicle when a child under the age of 12 years is present in that vehicle". The penalty for smoking in a car with minors could be as much as R500, according to law.
Transporting children in the back of a bakkie for money
A new law came into effect on 11 May 2017 that prohibits the transportation for compensation of schoolchildren in the goods compartment of a bakkie. The so-called "bakkie-taxi" is often the only way learners in informal areas are able to reach school. But it may no longer transport schoolchildren. Failure to comply could result in a fine of R2 500 when the vehicle is confiscated, plus a R7 000 fine to have the impounded vehicle released on first offence.
A R10 000 fine will have to be paid to have the impounded vehicle released on second offence and a R15 000 fine on the third offence.
Unlawful towing
Many motorists mistakenly assume that when they successfully complete their driver's test, they are allowed to tow. If you currently own an ordinary driver's licence (Code B) you are actually permitted to tow only trailers lighter than 750kg, which is more or less the weight of a small trailer. For anything bigger, such as a caravan, you need to be in possession of a Code EB licence.
Using a cellphone while driving
You may think that a few seconds is enough to safely take your eyes off the road and read a text message. However, that's all it takes for disaster to strike. With the use of cellphones being a top cause of driver distraction that can lead to accidents, the South African National Road Traffic Act has banned all activities that can be performed on a cellphone.
Drivers who are caught using a cellphone while driving may be fined up to R750. In the Western Cape, this offence is punishable with a fine of R500 and having the cellphone confiscated, with an additional release fee of R1 140.
It remains the driver's responsibility to keep the vehicle under control and create a safe driving environment for themselves and other road users. Not only will responsible driving habits keep you out of harm's way and avoid prosecution, it will also keep you in good standing with your car insurer.
This could be important, as insurance companies usually take into account the actions of all drivers involved in an accident to conclude who is liable for damages.
Article: www.hippo.co.za
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