Taxi drivers are often responsible for making drivers' blood boil, but it was deputy president Paul Mashatile's “blue-light brigade” that unleashed anger this week. Many want to know what rules apply to such convoys.
While they are not clear, Arrive Alive says vehicles that display blue lights have priority. Additionally, motorists must make way for them if it is safe to do so.
When looking into the nitty-gritty of the rules of the road, it's easy to become confused and many might cause you to revisit K53.
TAXI COLOURS
All taxis must be white, according to the National Land Transport Act. All vehicles must also carry the official South African sticker, though there are no rules on what size they should be.
STICKERS RULE
If you love “Baby on Board” stickers or those of your favourite soccer team, enlighten yourself on how far away from your number plate they need to be or risk being fined R1,000.
FLYING A KITE
While seemingly arbitrary, there are a number of restrictions on kite flying. The Civil Aviation Act prohibits kites from being flown higher than 45.72m and there are strict rules about flying them on public roads or near airports.
USING YOUR CELLPHONE
Yes, you can use your cellphone in the car. But only if you are stationary. According to the National Road Traffic Act, you can only use such a device when stopped at a traffic light.
Western Cape bylaws state that a cellphone can be confiscated for 24 hours if you are caught by a traffic officer breaking these rules.
SMOKING WITH KIDS IN THE CAR
Second-hand smoke has been debated for decades, but a little puff and pass in your car is prohibited if children therein are below the age of 12.
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