Rules of the road

Rules of the Road: A Complete guide by k53 Master

The rules of the road play a crucial role in regulating traffic, ensuring safety, and safeguarding the rights of all road users. These rules encompass various aspects such as speed limits, lane discipline, parking regulations, and proper use of vehicle lights. Complying with these road traffic laws is not only mandatory but also significantly reduces the likelihood of accidents, injuries, and fatalities on our highways and streets. If you want to study for your learners licence and be sure to pass the first time, check out our full online k53 learners licence masterclass at www.k53master.co.za

An illustration of cars and road signs for rules of the road

General Rules of the Road for Safe and Lawful Driving

When it comes to the general rules of the road, certain guidelines are essential for safe and lawful driving:

Keep Left pass right: On a two-way road, it’s imperative to drive on the left side, often referred to as “the rule of the road.” in South Africa.
One-Way Roads: On a one-way road, you may drive on the right side, provided it’s safe to do so.
Traffic Officer’s Authority: Always remember that the instructions given by a traffic officer take precedence over any rule of the road or road sign.
Safe Following Distance: Maintain a reasonable and prudent following distance, taking into account the speed of the vehicle in front of you and the current traffic conditions, as well as the condition of the roadway.
Clearance Certificate: Every vehicle must possess a valid clearance certificate, also known as a license disc, which is valid for 12 months from the date of issue.

speed limit of 70 as a rule of the road with a speeding car in the background

Rules of the Road: Understanding Speed Limits

Speed limits are essential rules of the road, ensuring safety and order. Here are the general speed limits:

60km/hr in Urban Areas: When driving within an urban area, the standard speed limit is 60km/hr.
100km/hr Outside Urban Areas: On roads located outside urban areas, the general speed limit is 100km/hr.
120km/hr on Freeways: When cruising on freeways, the permissible speed limit is 120km/hr.

For specific vehicles operating outside urban areas, the following limits apply:

80km/hr for Heavy Goods Vehicles: Goods vehicles or combinations with a total mass exceeding 9,000 kgs must adhere to an 80km/hr speed limit.
100km/hr for Passenger Buses: Buses and mini-buses carrying passengers are subject to a maximum speed limit of 100km/hr.

It’s crucial to note that if you encounter a road sign indicating a different speed limit than the general one, always prioritize the sign’s speed limit, as it overrides the standard limit.

A divided road for the rules of the road with a car driving on the left hand side

Rules of the road regarding Divided roads

Navigating divided roads comes with distinct rules that promote safety and order:

Stay on the Left: When a road is divided by either a painted or physical barrier, always stay on the left side of the division. This ensures a consistent flow of traffic and reduces the risk of collisions.
Cross Only at Designated Points: Cross this type of division exclusively at openings or spaces specifically indicated for this purpose. These designated points are strategically placed to facilitate safe and controlled crossings.
Overtaking and U-Turns: If it’s safe and necessary, you may cross a broken dividing line to overtake another vehicle or to perform a U-turn (provided there is no traffic sign explicitly prohibiting U-turns). This allows for efficient traffic flow and maneuverability.
Road Surface Markings: To better understand the meaning of the various markings on divided roads, refer to the “Road Surface Markings” section. These markings convey essential information for safe driving.

a car indicating to the right to overtake as the rules of the road require

Rules of the road when Overtaking Other Vehicles: Safe Practices to Follow

Overtaking another vehicle requires a set of essential rules to ensure safety and smooth traffic flow:

Obey Road Signs and Markings: Do not overtake if there is a road sign or road marking prohibiting overtaking. These indicators are in place for your safety and that of others.
Pedestrian Crossings: Never overtake a vehicle that has come to a stop at a pedestrian crossing. This is crucial to ensure the safety of pedestrians.
Passing on Narrow Roads: When overtaking a vehicle traveling in the same direction on a narrow road, pass on the right side of the vehicle while maintaining a safe distance. Avoid cutting in front of it when returning to the left side of the road.

Stay in Your Lane: Do not drive on the right-hand side of the roadway when facing oncoming traffic. Staying in your designated lane is imperative for safety.
Avoid the Shoulder: Refrain from driving on the shoulder or verge of the road when overtaking another vehicle.
Mind Blind Spots: Never overtake on a blind rise, curve, or any location where your visibility of the road ahead is limited and there might be oncoming traffic.
Caution with Buses: When overtaking a stationary bus, be alert for passengers boarding or leaving the bus. Exercise caution and watch for pedestrians.
Being Overtaken: If another vehicle is overtaking you, move over to the left to allow it to pass safely. Avoid accelerating during the overtaking process.

Overtaking on the Left: When and How to Do It Safely

Overtaking on the left is permissible under certain circumstances, provided it can be done safely and legally. Here are the scenarios where left-side overtaking is allowed:

Right-Turning Vehicle: If the vehicle in front of you is turning right or has indicated the intention to turn right, you may overtake on the left, ensuring safety during the maneuver.
One-Way Roads: On one-way roads, where traffic flows in a single direction, left-side overtaking is acceptable.
Multi-Lane Roads: Overtaking on the left is allowed on roads wide enough to accommodate two or more lanes of traffic moving in the same direction.
Marked Traffic Lanes: You can also overtake on the left if the road is wide enough and marked with designated traffic lanes for vehicles traveling in the same direction.
Traffic Officer Instructions: If directed to do so by a traffic officer, follow their instructions regarding overtaking.

Remember, even when overtaking on the left is permitted, it’s crucial not to cross the yellow left edge line, ensuring the safety and order of the road.

A road with two cars passing each other safely and considerately

Passing Oncoming Vehicles: Safe and Considerate Driving

When passing oncoming traffic, adhere to these important guidelines:

Keep to the left side of the road, ensuring a clear space between your vehicle and other vehicles. This practice promotes safety and minimizes the risk of accidents.

The Shoulder of the Road: Its Use and Exception

General rules concerning the shoulders of the road are as follows:

You should not drive on the shoulder of the road, especially to the left of the yellow edge line.

Exception: However, you may drive to the left of the yellow edge line to allow other vehicles to overtake, provided the following conditions are met:

It is a single lane roadway.
It is between sunrise and sunset.
It is safe to do so, and traffic visibility is good for at least 150 meters ahead.

an illustration of cars at a crossing with one braking the rules of the road by blocking traffic

Crossing or Entering a Road or Traffic Lane: Caution Required

When crossing or entering a road or traffic lane, take into account these vital considerations:

You should not enter or cross a road or traffic lane if your vehicle is likely to create a dangerous situation or obstruct the flow of traffic. Safety and the smooth movement of vehicles should be your top priorities.

traffic lanes with speeding cars in bright colors

Traffic Lanes: Staying in Your Lane and Lane Changes

When it comes to traffic lanes, it’s crucial to follow these rules:

Stay in your lane unless you need to change lanes, and it’s safe to do so.
Before changing lanes, check your mirrors and signal well in advance to alert other road users of your intentions.
Just before moving into the next lane, ensure you check the blind spot on that side to guarantee a safe lane change.
Avoid straddling lane lines, with one set of wheels in one lane and the other in another.

The last step before changing lanes is to check the blind spot on the side to which you intend to move.

mixed driving signals for the rules of the road

Driving Signals: Communicating Your Intentions Clearly

Proper driving signals are essential for effective communication on the road:

Always indicate your intention to change direction, reduce speed, or come to a stop.
Use indicators, stop lights, or hand signals in a manner that’s clearly visible to other road users for a suitable duration.

After completing a maneuver that required signaling, make sure to verify that the indicator has canceled.

a car with someone giving the hand signal for turning right

Hand Signals: When and How to Use Them

Hand signals play a role in communication on the road, but there are specific guidelines:

Hand signals should not be used on a freeway.
When necessary, here are the correct hand signals to use:

Note: Descriptions of the hand signals can be provided here as per your preferences, but for brevity, they have been omitted in this response.

Skyscrapers with a road in between with a traffic sircle

Rules of the road regarding traffic Circles: Right of Way and Yielding

When navigating traffic circles, remember these rules:

At a roundabout, always yield the right of way to all traffic approaching from the right, unless there is a road sign or a traffic officer instructing otherwise.
At a mini-circle, give way to vehicles that will cross or have already crossed any Yield line before you.

car turning right at intersection according to the rules of the road

Turning at Intersections: Safe and Considerate Practices

When making turns at intersections, it’s crucial to prioritize safety and the flow of traffic:

Turning Left: According to the rules of the road

Before turning left, indicate your intention in advance and stay as close as possible to the left side of the road.
After turning, adjust your speed to merge safely with the traffic flow.

Turning Right: According to the rules of the road

Before turning right, signal your intention in good time and keep as close as possible to the right side of your side of the road.
Give the right of way to any oncoming traffic.
When turning into a two-way road, cross the centerline to enter the left-hand side of the road (except when turning into a one-way road).

Pass to the left of any traffic island or a traffic officer controlling the intersection, avoiding cutting the corner too soon.

a car illegally stopping on the pavement braking the rules of the road

Rules of the road when Stopping on the Road: Legal Reasons Only

Remember these rules when it comes to stopping on the road:

Do not stop on the road unless you are instructed to do so by a traffic officer or a road sign, or if it’s necessary to prevent an accident, or if it’s due to a cause beyond your control.

No Stopping Areas: When and Where to Avoid Stopping

Stopping is strictly prohibited in certain areas:

Next to or opposite an excavation, as this could obstruct traffic flow.
In a tunnel, subway, or on a bridge.
Within 6 meters of a tunnel, subway, bridge, or a narrowed road width.
On the right-hand side of the road facing oncoming traffic.
Next to or opposite another vehicle where the road is less than 9 meters wide.
Within a railway reserve at a level crossing.
Within 9 meters of the approach side of a pedestrian crossing.
Where your vehicle would cause an obstruction or danger to traffic.
On a freeway (refer to “Not allowed on freeways” for details).

Rules of the road regarding Parking: What Constitutes Parking

Parking is defined as stopping for longer than necessary to off-load goods or passengers

No Parking Areas: Where Parking is Prohibited

You are not allowed to park in the following areas:

Any no-stopping area.
Within 1.5 meters of a fire hydrant.
Where your vehicle would obscure a road sign.
On a pavement/sidewalk unless the vehicle is used for business by a peddler, street vendor, or hawker.
Across a private or public vehicle entrance.
Within 1 meter of the edge of a road outside an urban area, unless it’s within a designated parking bay.
Within 5 meters of an intersection.
Over the actuating mechanism of a traffic light in an urban area.
With the outer edge of the kerbside wheel more than 450 mm into the roadway, unless permitted by a road sign.
On an urban road less than 5.5 meters wide, unless it’s a one-way road.
On a traffic island, in a pedestrian mall, or lane.

If a vehicle is illegally parked, it can be impounded, and the owner is liable for the costs of removal and impounding.

Emergency vehicles, rescue vehicles, construction vehicles, and traffic officers are exempt from these rules when used in the course of duty.

You may park on the right-hand side of a one-way road, provided the outer edge of the right-side wheels is not more than 450 mm into the roadway.

no parking sign for the rules of the road

Compulsory Stops: When and Why to Stop

You must come to a complete stop in the following circumstances:

If directed to do so by a traffic officer, road sign, traffic light, or a farm animal herdsman.
At the request of a person herding farm animals.
For pedestrians on, or about to enter, a pedestrian crossing on your side of the road.
If you are involved in a collision.

red car with illustration of lights for the rules of the road

Rules of the road regarding Lights: Ensuring Visibility and Safety

Compliance with lighting regulations is essential for safety and visibility on the road. Here are the key rules:

Headlights must emit white light only, providing a clear view in low-light conditions.
Motorcycles must keep their headlights on at all times while in operation.

Other vehicles’ headlights should be turned on between sunset and sunrise, ensuring visibility in darkness.
Headlights must be switched on when visibility is reduced, extending at least 150 meters ahead.
Main beams must have the capability to illuminate objects up to 100 meters in front of the vehicle.
Dipped beams are necessary when approaching other traffic, preventing glare and not reaching further than 45 meters on the road.
Parking lights are designated for use when a vehicle is parked outside a designated parking bay or more than 12 meters away from an illuminated street light. These lights should not be used while the vehicle is in motion.
Emergency warning flashing lights should only be used during emergencies or when the vehicle is stationary in a hazardous position.
Only specific vehicles prescribed by law may have flashing lights or strobes fitted to them.
After-market spot lamps on the front of a vehicle should not exceed two.
Adjustable spotlights are only allowed on official vehicles and those used by medical doctors, vets, or breakdown contractors.
Driving at night with only parking lights is not permitted; headlights must be used.
Parking lights should only be engaged when the vehicle is parked on the road outside a marked parking area or if it is positioned 12 meters or more from a lit street lamp.

Towing for Light Motor Vehicles: Guidelines for Safe Towing

Towing with light motor vehicles follows these important guidelines:

The distance between the two vehicles must not exceed 3.5 meters. If it is more than 1.8 meters, the tow-rope must be clearly visible (e.g., with a red flag tied to it).
Ensure that the tow-rope is securely attached to both vehicles.
The towed vehicle must be under the control of a licensed driver for that class of vehicle and must have efficient brakes.

If the front wheels of the towed vehicle have been lifted off the road, or a device to control steering is used in place of a tow-rope, the towed vehicle is not required to have efficient brakes.
Towing a vehicle should not exceed 30 km/h, unless a solid bar is used.
Towing a vehicle carrying passengers at a speed of more than 30 km/h is not permitted (unless the towed vehicle is a semi-trailer).

Towing on a freeway without a solid bar is illegal if the freeway has a minimum speed of more than 30 km/h.

a black motorcycle being towed on a trailer according to the rules of the road

Towing of Motorcycles: Special Considerations

Motorcycles and motor-tricycles are not allowed to tow another vehicle. It is advised to secure a motorcycle on a trailer for safe transport.

Prohibited Activities on Freeways: What’s Not Allowed

The following activities and vehicles are not allowed on freeways:

Animal-drawn vehicles.
Bicycles.
Motorcycles with an engine capacity of 50 cm³ or less.
Electrically powered motorcycles.
Vehicles with a mass of 230 kg or less, specifically designed for use by people with disabilities.
Motor tricycles or quad-bikes.
Tractors, unless in use for road maintenance.

Pedestrians are generally not permitted on freeways, unless they are in an area specifically designated for stopping or parking or for a cause beyond their control. Animals are also not allowed on a freeway, except when inside a vehicle or within an area specifically marked for stopping or parking.

Stopping on a freeway is only allowed when instructed to do so by a traffic officer or a road sign, within a designated stopping or parking area, or for a cause beyond your control.

Hand signals should not be used on a freeway, except in emergencies. These restrictions do not apply to maintenance workers, emergency crews, construction workers, and officials in the course of their duties.

a red car with a student and a driving instructor inside learning the rules of the road

Rules of the road for Learner Drivers on Freeways: Supervised Learning

Learner drivers may navigate freeways, but they must be accompanied by a driver licensed to operate that class of vehicle. Safety and guidance are essential during this learning process.

Overtaking on a Freeway: Share the Road Responsibly

When another motorist indicates a desire to overtake by flashing their headlights, follow these rules:

Signal and, if safe to do so, move over to the left to allow for the safe passage of the overtaking vehicle.
Avoid blocking the right-hand lane, even if you’re driving at the speed limit. Keep the flow of traffic smooth and allow faster-moving vehicles to pass.

a black illustration on a yellow background for road safety

General Duties of Drivers and Passengers: Road Safety Priorities

Drivers and passengers have certain responsibilities:

The driver should be seated in a way that ensures full control of the vehicle and an unobstructed view of the road ahead.

However, certain actions and behaviors are prohibited while driving or riding:

Reversing further than reasonably necessary.
Following another vehicle too closely, taking into account speed and traffic conditions.
Allowing anyone or anything to interfere with your control of the vehicle or your ability to signal your intentions to stop, slow down, or turn.
Allowing another person to steer unless you become incapable of steering.
Leaving a vehicle unattended without properly setting the brake or using another method to prevent movement.
Moving off from a stationary position when it’s not safe to do so.
Allowing any part of your or a passenger’s body to extend outside of the vehicle, except for giving hand signals or during vehicle testing.
Allowing a person or animal to be outside or on the vehicle while it’s in motion.
Running the engine if it’s emitting excessive smoke or fumes.
Running the engine while fuel is being pumped into the vehicle or the fuel-tank cap is off.
Leaving the engine running when the vehicle is unattended and stationary.
Depositing fuel, grease, oil, or any other flammable or offensive matter onto the road or roadside.
Allowing passengers to embark or disembark from the vehicle while it’s in motion.
Driving, pushing, or pulling a vehicle on a pavement.
Failing to yield to a vehicle sounding an emergency siren or similar device or not moving out of the way of emergency vehicles to allow them to reach an accident scene or hospital.
Operating a communication device (e.g., a cellphone or two-way radio) held in your hand or with any other part of your body while driving. It must be hands-free or used with a headset.

General Rules of the Road for Motorcyclists: Safety and Compliance

Motorcyclists should adhere to the following general rules:

Quad-bikes and off-road (unlicensed) motorcycles are not allowed on public roads.
Always wear a suitable safety helmet when riding, for your safety and protection.
Maintain proper riding posture by keeping both feet on the footrests of the motorcycle and sitting astride the saddle.
On motorcycles with an engine capacity of 50 cm³ or less, you may not carry a passenger.
Motorcycles with an engine capacity of 50 cc or less are not permitted on freeways.
Passengers must either sit astride the saddle with both feet on the footrests or be seated in a side-car.
No more than two people may travel on a motorcycle, and no more than two adults may ride in a side-car.
Avoid obstructing your view ahead or your ability to control the motorcycle by carrying any person, animal, or bulky object in a way that interferes with these aspects.
Motorcycles must ride in single-file on the road, and only one motorcycle at a time may overtake another vehicle traveling in the same lane.
Keep at least one hand on the handlebars at all times, ensuring that all wheels maintain contact with the road surface.
A motorcycle must have one number plate securely attached to the rear of the vehicle.
Motorcycles are not allowed to tow any type of vehicle.

Carrying Loads on Motorcycles: Guidelines for Safe Transport

When carrying loads on motorcycles, follow these guidelines for projection limits:

Projections must not extend more than 600 mm to the front of the front axle.
Projections must not extend more than 900 mm to the rear of the back axle.
Projections must not extend more than 450 mm to the side of the motorcycle wheels.
Projections must not extend more than 300 mm to the side of the side-car wheel.

These provisions do not apply to mirrors or crash-bars. Additionally, no person, animal, or article should be carried in front of the driver on the seat, fuel tank, or handlebars.

car with huge exhausts making noise against the rules of the road

Vehicles Causing Excessive Noise: Maintain Peace and Quiet

Operating a vehicle that is excessively noisy or has noisy accessories is not allowed. It’s important to respect noise pollution regulations and keep noise levels in check.

Use of the Hooter: Honking for Safety

The use of a hooter, or horn, on your vehicle is subject to specific rules:

Honk the horn for safety reasons only and avoid unnecessary honking.
The hooter must produce an audible sound for a minimum distance of at least 90 meters, and the pitch of the sound may not vary.

Rules of the road regarding Pedestrian’s Right of Way at Crossings: Safety Priority

In cases of vehicles colliding with pedestrians, the following rules apply:

The driver will be prosecuted in the event of a collision with a pedestrian, regardless of who had the right of way.
When a pedestrian crossing is located alongside traffic lights, pedestrians should follow the signals provided by the traffic lights.

pedestrian crossing with people and cars following the rules of the road

Drivers must yield the right of way by slowing down or stopping for pedestrians who are on or about to enter a pedestrian crossing on the same side of the road as the approaching driver.
Avoid overtaking a vehicle that has come to a stop at a pedestrian crossing.
Pedestrians should not suddenly enter a pedestrian crossing, creating a situation where approaching vehicles cannot stop safely.

Pedestrians should use designated pedestrian crossings or cross the road at a location more than 50 meters away from a designated crossing.

Racing and Sports on Public Roads: Prior Approval Required

Conducting races or sports events on public roads is subject to the following regulations:

You may not organize a race or sports meeting on a public road without the consent of the MEC of the province or the relevant local authority.
Modified vehicles used for racing or sports events must adhere to the specifications of the manufacturer and/or SABS (South African Bureau of Standards).

a car crossing a road and not following the rules of the road by obstructing traffic with his caravan

Hindering or Obstructing Traffic: Keep Traffic Flowing Smoothly

On public roads, it is crucial to ensure the uninterrupted flow of traffic:

Avoid hindering or interrupting the free flow of traffic on public roads, as such actions can lead to congestion and safety hazards.

Abandoned Vehicles: Removal and Responsibility

Abandoned vehicles left on public roads or in public places are subject to specific regulations:

These vehicles can be removed and impounded, and the owner is responsible for the removal and impounding costs. In some cases, the vehicle may be sold to cover these expenses.
Abandoned vehicles include those parked in a way that poses a danger or obstruction to other traffic, left in the same place on a public road for 24 hours outside an urban area, left in the same place for 7 days on a public road in an urban area or at a testing station, found on a public road without a number plate or with a false number plate, found without definite means of identifying the owner, or parked in no-stopping or no-parking areas.

Damage to Public Roads: Road Surface Preservation

To maintain the integrity of public roads, certain actions are prohibited:

Avoid dragging or spinning the wheels of a vehicle on the road surface, except in emergencies.
Do not use chocks or shoes between the wheels and the road surface. (Chocks are wedges used to prevent vehicle rolling, and shoes are frames typically used for bicycles and motorbikes to keep them upright.)
Do not engage in any activity that could damage the road’s surface.

lady sitting against a car after being injured by car accident caused by not following the rules of the road

Accidents or Collisions: Responsibilities and Procedures

In the event of an accident involving a person, animal, or property, the following procedures must be followed:

Stop the vehicle immediately.
Assess the nature and extent of any injuries and provide assistance to the injured when possible.
Provide your name and address, the name and address of the vehicle owner, and the vehicle’s registration number to anyone with a reasonable need for these details.

Report the accident and present your driver’s license to the police within 24 hours if it was not done at the accident scene.
Refrain from consuming intoxicating liquor or narcotic drugs before reporting the accident, unless instructed to do so by a medical practitioner.

When someone has been killed or injured:

Call emergency services immediately.
Ensure that the vehicles involved are not moved without authorization from a traffic officer, except when the vehicles are completely blocking the road and only after marking their positions on the road surface. They may be moved enough to allow traffic to pass.

Reckless, Negligent, or Inconsiderate Driving: Responsible Behavior

The rules of the road emphasize safe and considerate driving:

Avoid driving in a manner that disregards the safety of other road users or property.
Drive with consideration for the rights of other road users.

picture with tyre threads and presure guide

Rules of the road for Tyres: Safety and Maintenance

Adherence to specific rules regarding your vehicle’s tires is essential:

The tread pattern on the tire must be clearly visible and have a depth of no less than 1 mm across the entire width and circumference of the tire. Motorcycles under 50 cm³ must have a tread pattern visible on at least 80% of the tread width.
The sidewalls of the tire should not have deep cuts, and the inner cords should not be visible.
The tire should not be in a state of disrepair or condition, such as having long cuts or bulges, that may cause damage to the road surface or pose a danger.
Motorcycles are prohibited from being fitted with retreaded tires.
Buses, midi-buses, and mini-buses operating with a license issued by the NLTTA must be equipped with commercial steel radial-ply tires, and the steering wheels must have anti-burst stabilizer devices.

a person holding a beer while driving regardless of the rules of the road

Intoxicating Liquor and Narcotic Drugs: Responsible Control

Rules regarding the influence of intoxicating liquor and narcotic drugs while operating a motor vehicle:

You must not be in control of a motor vehicle with the engine running if the alcohol level in your blood or breath exceeds the permissible limit established from time to time or if you are under the influence of any narcotic drug.

The permissible alcohol levels are as follows:

0.05 grams per 100 ml of blood for an ordinary driver (0.24 milligrams per 1,000 milliliters of breath specimen).
0.02 grams per 100 ml of blood for professional drivers (0.10 milligrams per 1,000 milliliters of breath specimen).

Refusing to provide a blood or breath specimen is considered an offense.

a car with 2 boys in the front seat and 2 girls on the back seat driving on the road

Conveying Passengers: Safety Considerations

Rules pertaining to the safe transportation of passengers:

Passengers are not permitted to stand inside a light motor vehicle.
If passengers are carried on the back of an open goods vehicle (e.g., a truck, bakkie, pick-up), the sides of the carrying area must adhere to specific height requirements: 350 mm above the seating surface for seated passengers and 900 mm high for standing passengers.

The number of passengers allowed is based on seat width. One adult is allowed per 380 mm of seat back width.
Seat width calculations for children:

Up to 6 years of age: 2 children are considered equivalent to one adult, requiring 380 mm.
From 6 to 13 years of age: 3 children are considered equivalent to two adults, requiring 760 mm.

Rules of the road for Carrying Loads on a Motor Vehicle

When transporting loads, it’s crucial to follow these rules:

No part of the load should come into contact with the road surface.
The load must be securely fastened or kept inside the vehicle, ensuring it doesn’t obstruct the driver’s control or view of the road ahead.

Projection Limits:

The load must not project more than 300 mm beyond the front of the vehicle.
It should not extend more than 1.8 meters beyond the rear of the vehicle.
For goods vehicles, the load should not exceed 4.3 meters in height from the ground. On car roofs, the load should not be more than half the vehicle’s height, except for bicycles.
The width of the load should not exceed 2.5 meters, or 2.6 meters for goods vehicles with a mass of 12,000 kg and above, except for abnormal loads, which require permission from local traffic authorities.
Any fitted bracket should not extend more than 150 mm beyond the vehicle’s widest part.

Safety Markings:

Loads projecting 150 mm or more to the side of the vehicle or over 300 mm to the rear must be marked:

During the day: with 300 mm square red flags at each corner (front and rear) of the load.
At night: with white reflectors on each corner at the front, red reflectors at each corner at the back, and yellow reflectors on the sides.

Loads less than 600 mm wide that project 300 mm or more beyond the rear of the vehicle must be marked:

During the day: with a single 300 mm square red flag at the back end of the load.
At night: with one red reflector at the back end of the load.

Seatbelts: Ensuring Safety

Adhering to seatbelt rules is of utmost importance:

The driver is responsible for ensuring that all occupants over the age of 3 years or taller than 1.5 meters are wearing seat belts fitted to the vehicle. The driver is exempted while reversing.
If seat belts have been removed, the vehicle may not be used on public roads.
If there is no seat belt on the front seat, children up to the age of 14 must sit in the back seat.
Passengers may not occupy a seat without a seat belt if a seat with a seat belt is available.

vehicles following a convoy according to the rules of the road

Rules of the road for Convoys (Groups of Vehicles)

Traveling in convoys has specific regulations:

Vehicles may not travel in convoy over weekends, long weekends, and the two-day holidays on 25-26 December, during the following periods:

From 6 pm the night before the weekend/holiday starts.
Until 6 am the morning after the weekend/holiday.

Unauthorised Use of a Vehicle: A Legal Offense

Unauthorized use of a vehicle is strictly prohibited:

No one is permitted to drive or occupy a vehicle or tamper with it without permission.
Altering a vehicle’s engine number or chassis number in any way without prior written consent from the registering authority is illegal.

Rules of the road for Animals on Public Roads

When it comes to animals on public roads, certain rules apply:

Animals that are not under someone’s control are not permitted on public roads or in areas from which they might stray onto a public road.
Those responsible for controlling animals on a public road must carry a warning sign at least 150 meters ahead of and beyond the herd:

Between sunset and sunrise: a red light.
Between sunrise and sunset: a 300 mm² red flag.

If there are not more than 10 animals, only one light or flag is required.

emergency triangle used to follow the rules of the road

Emergency Triangles

Emergency triangles are a crucial safety measure:

Every motor vehicle must carry at least one double-sided reflective triangle meeting SABS specifications at all times. (Motor cars first registered before 1 July 2006 are exempted.)
If the vehicle breaks down or is stationary on a public road, the triangle must be displayed at least 45 meters from the rear of the vehicle to warn approaching traffic.

Additional Legislation on Rules of the Road: Compiled by K53 Master

Apart from the official Rules of the Road, there are other pieces of legislation you should be aware of:

In computerized tests conducted by the Department of Transport, some questions about motor vehicle and motorcycle specifications are included, even though they are not part of the official syllabus for the Learner’s Licence test as defined in the South African National Road Traffic Act. If your test includes questions related to these topics, here are some examples of areas you might be tested on. It is recommended that you study the following items from the legislation:

the rules of the road written on a picture of a car taking a turn to fast

Rules of the road on Number Plates and Rear Number Plate Lamps

When it comes to number plates and rear number plate lamps, there are specific requirements:

All vehicles must be equipped with SABS approved number plates, which should be mounted in an upright position or within 30 degrees of upright.
Number plates must be securely attached and not easily removable.
Motorcycles, motor-tricycles, and trailers must have one number plate mounted at the back.
Other vehicles must have a number plate both at the front and back.
Each letter and figure on the plate must be clearly legible, and the entire number plate must be easily visible.
A lamp must illuminate the plate, ensuring that every letter and figure is legible from at least 20 meters away.
The lamp should not face the rear (towards vehicles following from behind).

Motorcycle Steering Gear rules of the road

Motorcycle steering gear should meet specific criteria:

The steering system must always enable the rider to steer safely and efficiently.
Handlebar width should align with the engine capacity of the motorcycle:

Engine 200 cc or more: between 600 mm and 800 mm wide.
Engine less than 200 cc: between 500 mm and 800 mm wide.

The outer edges of the hand-grips should not be higher than 500 mm above the seat level or lower than the seat level.

Vehicle Turning Radius

All vehicles must have the capability to turn within a radius of 13.1 meters or less.

Requirements for Engines, Silencers, and Exhaust Pipes

Specific requirements apply to engines, silencers, and exhaust pipes:

Engine emissions must always pass through the silencer.
Light and heavy vehicles must cover the engine to prevent it from being a source of danger.
The exhaust system and silencer must effectively control noise and smoke emissions.
The exhaust smoke should not create a nuisance or hinder the vision of other road users.
The exhaust system must not leak exhaust gas into the vehicle’s cab or passenger compartment.
Preventive measures must be taken to ensure that oil or other flammable materials do not drip or fall onto the exhaust pipes or silencer to avoid creating a fire hazard.

Reflectors/Reflective Material

Reflectors and reflective materials have specific requirements:

Heavy motor vehicles must have a red reflector on each side at the back of the vehicle, positioned at the same height from the road surface.
Heavy motor vehicles or combinations longer than 7 meters must have yellow reflectors along each side, spaced not more than 3.6 meters apart.
Goods vehicles with a gross vehicle mass exceeding 10,000 kg must have yellow reflective tape on the sides and across the back. If reflective strips are used, it’s not mandatory to fit yellow reflectors on the sides.
Goods vehicles with a gross vehicle mass of up to 10,000 kg can use reflective strips along the vehicle length, but this is not compulsory.

Maximum Permissible Vehicle Length

The maximum permissible length for various types of vehicles is as follows:

Bus-train or any combination of motor vehicles: 22 meters
Articulated motor vehicle: 18.5 meters
Trailer (not semi-trailer) with a GVM less than 12,000 kilograms: 8 meters
Trailer (not semi-trailer) with a GVM more than 12,000 kilograms: 12.5 meters
Any other vehicle: 12.5 meters

If you need in person driver training, visit Bliksem Driving School for the best driving lessons in South Africa

Rules of the Road: A Comprehensive Guide