Pregnant drivers now required to be accompanied by licenced driver
APRIL FOOLS!
New driving regulations set for 11 May 2017 were released last month when the Minister of Transport continued her campaign against irresponsible driving and deaths on SA roads.
Included in these regulations (among reduced speed limits and new driving licence renewal processes) were new rules relating to pregnant drivers. It was stated that pregnant drivers will now be required to be accompanied by a licenced driver at all times when on the road, to reduce the risk of road accidents and deaths.
In a more recent statement, Piet Geldenhuys of the Justice Project South Africa (JPSA), has said that the Department of Transport has confused the public by spreading misinformation and urged the Department to clearly state the specific regulations pertaining to pregnant drivers.
The Department has since announced that this new regulation only applies to pregnant women of 7 months or more and that those who fail to adhere could be fined up to R1 500.
“Our aim is to prevent as many road accidents and fatalities as possible. A woman who is very pregnant is at risk to herself and others when driving on SA roads. Hormones, not to mention the physical dimensions of a pregnant belly behind the wheel, are reason enough to ensure that a competent driver is on board at all times,” said the Minister of Transport.