In a bold move, Cape Town’s traffic authorities cracked down on Cape Town unlicensed drivers, launching a major operation on July 25 in the city’s CBD.
Consequently, they fined 54 drivers in a single roadblock for failing to carry a valid driver’s license. Moreover, this operation formed part of a week-long campaign that issued 49,687 fines for various traffic violations, exposing a worrying trend of non-compliance on the city’s roads.
Risks of Driving Without a License
JP Smith, the City’s Safety and Security MMC, actively highlighted the risks that Cape Town unlicensed drivers pose.
“It’s alarming to realise how many people drive without valid licenses or proof of a valid license,” he stated.
Unlicensed drivers actively endanger themselves and others, significantly contributing to road safety challenges. For instance, authorities stress that only a physical driver’s license card serves as acceptable proof of legal driving, as digital copies remain invalid.
Stepped-Up Enforcement Measures
To tackle unlawful driving, the City of Cape Town actively intensifies its efforts. Beyond fining Cape Town unlicensed drivers, traffic officers impounded 239 public transport vehicles and executed 1,845 warrants over the past week.
These actions actively enforce compliance with the National Road Traffic Act, aiming to enhance road safety. Additionally, Smith urges motorists to carry their license cards at all times and advises those with lost or stolen cards to keep proof of new applications ready.
Public Transport in Focus
Furthermore, the crackdown targets public transport operators, who accounted for many impounded vehicles. This effort actively strengthens regulation in this vital sector, ensuring safer and more reliable services for residents. By addressing Cape Town unlicensed drivers in public transport, authorities aim to boost overall compliance.
Motorists Urged to Comply
Cape Town’s firm enforcement clearly highlights the need for drivers to carry a valid license. Therefore, motorists should stay informed about traffic regulations via the City’s official transport website. By complying, drivers avoid fines and actively contribute to safer roads for everyone.
