Traffic fines to increase in Knysna...full statement/rates

01 Feb 2016 | Admin Author

In an attempt to improve road safety and compliance the Western Cape Provincial Government department of Transport and Public Works has increased traffic fine tariffs. The fines came into effect on 1 August 2014.

According to the Directorate Traffic Law Enforcement the threat of these fines will no doubt deter would-be errant motorists from engaging in irresponsible and dangerous behavior on our roads. Fines that have increased are as follows:
" Failing to stop on demand of a traffic offer: was R500 now R1500
" No driving license: was R500 now R1500, Heavy motor vehicles R2500
" No Professional Driving Permit (PrDP): R2500, with passengers R3000
" Unroadworthy vehicles: was R1000 now R3000
" Unroadworthy bus or minibus: was R1000 now R3000
" Contrary to discontinue notices: R3500
" Operator safety issues: R3000
" Inconsiderate driving: was R1000 now R2500
" Scholar stop: was R500 now R3000
" Level crossing: was R500 to now R3000
" Normal stop: was R500 to now R1500, with an increase for those holding PrDP to R3000
" Bus and minibus stop: was R500 now R3000
" Bus and minibus stop: was R500 now R1500
" Disregarding bus/minibus lane: was R500 now R1500
" No overtaking line: was R1000 now R2500 and for those holding a PrDP to R3500
" Skipping traffic lights: was R1000 now R2000 and R2500 for those holding a PrDP
" Service brakes: was R500 now R2500 for those holding PrDP

The Directorate further stated that offences for overloaded vehicle changed from kilogram categories to a percentage rating. If vehicles are over the 14% to 33% threshold, fines will range from R750 - R5000 (previously from R250 and R2500). In addition, the cut-off for No AG (no admission of guilt) for buses and minibuses was 150km/h reduced to 134km/h and a R1500 fine.

Whilst speeding fines for regular vehicles have not increased, public transport vehicles face harsher penalties for exceeding the limit.

Mayoral Committee member and Chairperson for the Community Services Committee, Cllr Irene Grootboom said "the municipality welcomes these increases as it adds weight to the seriousness of these offences. Too many lives are lost on our roads. Our traffic officials will enforce these laws without hesitation or leniency and by doing so our roads can become safer for all road users".