Mastering South African Road Rules

A: Alright, let's kick things off by looking at how to get on the road legally in South Africa, starting with your Learner's Licence. We'll be referencing the SA Learner Driver Manual quite a bit here.

B: So, a learner's is the first step. Are there different types, depending on what you want to drive?

A: Absolutely. There are three main codes. Code 1 is for motorcycles, and you need to be at least 16. Code 2 covers light motor vehicles, anything under 3500kg, requiring you to be 17. And for heavy motor vehicles, that's Code 3, for which you must be 18.

B: That makes sense. Are there any automatic disqualifications that would prevent someone from even getting a learner's, regardless of age?

A: Indeed. Things like uncontrolled epilepsy, or addiction to drugs with a narcotic effect or excessive use of intoxicating liquor, would immediately disqualify an applicant. It's about public safety, ultimately.

B: Right. And once you have the licence, before you even start driving, what essential checks are drivers legally required to do on their vehicle?

A: Before every drive, you need to ensure all your lights are undamaged and working – that's headlamps, rear lamps. Your brakes, both service and parking, must be fully functional, and your hooter must be audible. And crucial for everyone's safety, seatbelts are compulsory for all occupants aged three and older.

A: Alright, so moving from just getting your learner's, let's talk about actually *moving* on the road, starting with speed limits. What are the general rules we need to know in South Africa?

B: Okay, so there are three main general speed limits. If you're in an urban area, it's 60 kilometers per hour. Outside urban areas, on a non-freeway rural road, you're looking at 100 km/h. And then on freeways, it's 120 km/h.

A: That's pretty standard, but I remember seeing something about special limits for certain vehicles... is that right?

B: Yes, absolutely. For example, goods vehicles with a Gross Vehicle Mass, or GVM, of more than 9000 kilograms have a special speed limit of 80 km/h. It's important to be aware of your vehicle type.

A: Makes sense. And fundamentally, we drive on the left side of the roadway here, correct?

B: That's the core principle. Always drive on the left. When it comes to overtaking, the standard procedure is to pass on the right, at a safe distance from the vehicle you're passing.

A: But there are situations where you can pass on the left, right? I recall that being a bit of a tricky area for new drivers.

B: You're right. Passing on the left is permissible in specific situations, like on a multi-lane one-way street, or if the vehicle in front of you is turning right and has signaled that intention. But never, ever do it on the shoulder or verge of the road.

A: Good to clarify. Finally, let's talk about following distance – that's crucial for safety. What are the recommendations?

B: The manual recommends a minimum two-second following distance for light motor vehicles and motorcycles. For heavy vehicles, it increases to three seconds. And always remember, in adverse conditions like rain or poor visibility, you need to increase those distances even more.

A: Alright, so we've covered the basics of getting your learner's, pre-checks, and movement. Now let's tackle some of the more... complex scenarios, starting with parking. Where are some of those critical places you absolutely cannot park?

B: Oh, there are quite a few. From the manual, you definitely can't park within 5 meters of an intersection. Also, if there's a fire hydrant, you need to stay at least 1.5 meters away on either side.

A: Good, good. And what about obstructing things?

B: Absolutely can't park in a way that obstructs a traffic sign, or a private or public entrance. It just makes sense, doesn't it?

A: Completely. Now, freeways. They have their own set of rules, and some vehicles are just outright prohibited. What comes to mind there?

B: Pedal cycles, for sure. And interestingly, motorcycles under 50cc. I guess they're considered too slow for the freeway environment. Also, you're not supposed to be on a freeway on foot under normal circumstances.

A: That's right. And speaking of things that are absolutely prohibited, regardless of where you are on the road, what's a major one that often gets people into trouble now?

B: Cell phones! Holding a cellular or mobile phone, or any communication device, in your hand while driving. That's an absolute no-go, and rightly so for safety.

A: Indeed. Let's move to a serious topic: accidents. If you're involved, what are your immediate duties as a driver?

B: First, you must stop immediately. Then, check for injuries and provide any assistance you can. You also need to ascertain the extent of any damage and, if asked, provide your personal details, the owner's details, and the vehicle's registration number.

A: And if you don't report it at the scene?

B: You have a legal requirement to report the accident to the police within 24 hours. And definitely no intoxicating liquor or narcotic drugs until you've reported it, unless a medical practitioner says otherwise.

A: Crucial. Finally, what about some other serious offenses that carry stiff penalties?

B: Inconsiderate driving, of course. And then, the big one: driving under the influence. The blood alcohol limit is 0.05 grams per 100ml of blood for regular drivers, even lower for professional drivers. It's a zero-tolerance approach to keeping our roads safe.