With the Easter weekend upon us, elevated visitors volumes might be anticipated.
Final 12 months, the identical interval noticed greater than 180 crashes and over 200 accidents with fatalities recorded in SA.
Elevated police visibility and roadblocks needs to be anticipated, however what are your rights when stopped at a roadblock? Authorized skilled Kirstie Haslam gave the next recommendation:
What to anticipate at a roadblock
Underneath Part 13(8) of the SAPS Act, police and visitors officers in uniform are authorised to cease automobiles at correctly sanctioned roadblocks. Motorists should current a legitimate driver’s licence and supply identification particulars if requested.
Officers could search automobiles and people with out a warrant and confiscate any unlawful items discovered.
“If detained or arrested, you might have the best to authorized illustration and shouldn’t be questioned with out your lawyer current if one is requested,” says Haslam.
Your roadblock survival guidelines
- Pull over safely when signalled.
- Keep calm and respectful. Adjust to directions and keep away from confrontation.
- Signal fines or infringement notices calmly — roadside arguments solely escalate the state of affairs.
- By no means supply a bribe. Bribery is a felony offence.
- Know your rights. Consciousness of authorized boundaries can forestall potential abuses of energy.
- Test your car. Guarantee roadworthiness and that your licence and registration are updated.
