As we all know, the rules of the road are there to protect both drivers and pedestrians, but what about the safety of our animals? Contrary to what many people are aware of, there are indeed a few road rules in South Africa that concern our furry and feathered friends. Let us take a look.
- The driver of any vehicle on a public road is obliged to stop his / her vehicle if it is requested by a person driving or leading any of the following animals on the same road:
- Sheep,
- Goat,
- Pig,
- Mule,
- Ass,
- Ostrich,
- Horse,
- Cow
- No person driving a vehicle on a public road may allow any animal to obstruct or affect his / her ability to safely operate that vehicle. The driver should be able to do the following at all times:
- Signal a change of direction,
- Apply his / her brakes,
- Utilise his / her hooter.
- It is illegal for anyone to operate their car, truck or van while an animal is occupying the roof.
- It is illegal for the driver of a motorcycle, motor tricycle or motor quadracycle to carry an animal that is unsecured. The animal should not be able to compromise the driver’s vision in any way and should be safely secured in an adequate carrier that can attach to the motorcycle, motor tricycle or motor quadracycle.
- No living creature may be carried on a pedal cycle if it obstructs the person’s ability to properly and safely manoeuvre the pedal cycle.
- Under no circumstances is a vehicle that is drawn by a living creature allowed on a freeway.
- No living creature may be left or placed on a freeway, or left or placed in an area that may allow the animal the opportunity to stray onto the freeway, unless it is in, or on, a motor-vehicle.
Should anyone operating a car, truck, van, motorcycle, motor tricycle, motor quadracycle or pedal cycle break any of these laws, he / she will receive a hefty fine and / or be prosecuted depending on the severity of the offence.
Now that you are aware of the traffic violations concerning the transport of animals, and the safety of drivers and other living creatures on the roads, you are sure to save a lot of money and avoid some nasty accidents that would have resulted in car insurance claims. Be safe out there, and download MiWay’s free ebook to find out more regarding traffic fines.
Also view:
What does the law say about riding a horse on a public road?
Did you know a person who drives a herd is seen as the driver of a vehicle in road legislation?