The RMI has noted the latest amendments of the National Road Traffic Act. While the organization is still working through the 156 page document and looking at the implications of some of the provisions, the emphasis on road safety is welcomed. 

The organization has always been committed to ensuring safe and well maintained vehicles on our roads, and has supported the country’s commitment to the “Decade of Action for Road Safety”.

In particular, the amendment to regulation 138, which calls for the roadworthy testing of vehicles older than 10 years is especially supported in view of the lives that could be saved on our roads. What the implementation of compulsory testing for older vehicles will do, will be to force motorists to ensure that their vehicles are maintained in a safe and roadworthy condition. In addition, it will engender a safety consciousness and a culture of compliance which will make a positive impact on all aspects of road safety; including driver behavior.

The compulsory regular testing of vehicles is a common practice in other parts of the world. In most first world countries, there is a regime of regular testing for vehicles older than three years, every two years, or in some countries, this is an annual test. Emission testing also forms part of regular testing in other parts of the world. For South Africa to introduce this, albeit for vehicles older than 10 years, is a great step forward for safer vehicles on the road.

What are your thoughts on this? Are you excited about the opportunity for increased business or perturbed at what could be a tremendous inconvenience to vehicle owners? Let us know here!

Tags: roadworthy, Safety, Vehicle testing