Oh dear, the Western Cape is sticking to higher traffic fines
Recently the increase in Western Cape traffic fines lead to violent outrage by taxi operators. Western Cape fines have more than doubled, and transport operators have been complaining that the fines are too harsh. Some taxi drivers protested against the increases last month and have have gone so far as to burn Golden Arrow and MyCiTi buses. Yet, the Western Cape government is not backing down and they are adamant to keep the traffic fines in the high.
The provincial department of transport and public works said it supported the fine increases by the chief magistrate of the Western Cape, as they were ”based on the need to improve commuter safety and driver compliance”.
Fines for some traffic offences in the province increased last month by as much as 300%. Serious offences would cost an offender R5,000, up from R1,500. Others increased to R3,000 from a R1,500 fine, while less serious offences have been hiked to R1,500 from R500.
Drivers of unroadworthy vehicles, buses or minibuses would be fined R3,000, up from R1,000. “Inconsiderate” drivers would be fined R2,500, up from R1,000.
Gauteng Traffic Police spokes-woman Busaphi Nxumalo said traffic fines averaged R150 for minor offences and R1,500 for serious offences. Motorists in the province owe more than R3bn in traffic fines.