AA Blogs
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Make it memorable
While Gary Kirsten was in India coaching the country’s national cricket team, he met then FNB CEO Michael Jordaan for coffee. The waiter certainly did not fail to recognise Kirsten as he is considered something of a “demigod” in that cricket-mad nation. But the staffer did not descend into a selfie and autograph fest. Instead, he acknowledged Kirsten’s presence by quietly serving his cappuccino...
How much is too much?
With the arrival of the festive season, South Africans will be celebrating the holidays in customary animated fashion. While it is important to relax and have fun during this time, it is crucial to be mindful of the legal implications of drinking and driving. The National Road Traffic Act sets out the legal limits and prohibitions for driving whilst under the influence. It provides that no one...
How to help if you are first on the scene of an accident
Traffic accidents are a regular occurrence on South African roads with thousands of accidents reported annually. The odds are that at some point you will come across an accident scene. Knowing how best to handle such a situation can go a long way towards lessening the potential trauma and risk involved and could save lives. You should always remember, however, that ensuring your own safety is as...
Approval of the AARTO Demerit System and how it will Impact Motorists
In South Africa, laws undergo a certain process before officially being enacted. Before a proposed piece of legislation becomes law, it goes through a process of discussion and deliberation in parliament. The public also has an opportunity to comment on the proposed legislation. After this, a Bill, which is a draft version of an Act, is drafted. This draft version is not law yet, and must pass...
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Carnet de Passages en Douane Requirements
The Carnet de Passages en Douane (CPD) is the international customs document, which covers the temporary admission of motor vehicles. The CPD is still required today, in numerous countries around the world, for temporary admission of private automobiles, commercial vehicles or other categories of motor vehicles. It facilitates the temporary importation of motor vehicles by providing security for...
October is a good time to reflect on your driving attitude
October is transport month in South Africa, and a good opportunity for all motorists to reflect on their driving behaviour. This is especially important as we look back on developments on our roads in 2016. According to figures from the Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC), 14 071 people died on the country’s roads last year, the highest annual road death toll since 2007. According to the...
How to protect your car from hail damage
Skills every new driver should have
Apart from basic driving skills – which you would have mastered before obtaining your driving licence – there are other important skills each new driver should possess. Learn them now and they will stand you in good stead for the rest of your life. Finding the correct driving position Adjusting your car seat is about more than just getting comfortable; it is also about ensuring good visibility,...
Child seats and what the legal liabilities are
A simple internet search will show you the devastating effects of a motor vehicle crash on an unrestrained child. The Constitution of South Africa states the best interests of children are of paramount importance in every matter concerning them. As drivers, this is a principle we should keep in mind when we drive with a child passenger Regulation 213 of the National Road Traffic Act regulates...
Motorists obligations towards pedestrians and cyclists
The National Road Traffic Act sets out certain obligations for motorists sharing the roads with pedestrians and cyclists. Motorists should always be vigilant, and keep a lookout for pedestrians and cyclists who are among South Africa’s most vulnerable road users. Our roads belong to all users and are not just for the exclusive use of those behind the wheel of a car. One of the obligations of...