8 South African Road Safety Tips for Foreigners

Staying safe and sound on the road can be daunting, for locals that are driving and even more so for foreigners using the roads.

Stay safe in South Africa, whether you're driving or not - download the PatrolMan app and keep up to date with the latest crime stats in the area, as well as use the SOS button if you're ever in an emergency situation!

Learn how to navigate the South African roads safely with these 8 road safety tips…

       -          Always have a valid driver’s license with you. Any traffic officer who pulls your over will ask for your license, no matter which country you are from. So, always make sure you carry one with you, as well as an International Driver’s Permit – in English!

      -          Remember that the rules of the road may be different. If you’re from a country that has left hand drive cars and you travel on the right side of the road, then be careful! It can be tricky at first to get it right on the other side of the road. Also keep in mind that distance and speed is measured in Kilometres.

      -          Try and learn the local lingo. In South Africa, we have our own local language that may confuse a few people. Always remember the big ones, like a robot is actually a traffic light and a circle is a roundabout.

      -          Keep your doors locked at all times. It is also a good idea to keep your windows at least half way rolled up, especially when you stop at a stop street or at a red light. Hijacking is a common occurrence in South Africa.

      -          Never leave any valuables in plain sight in your vehicle. Keep in mind that this tip does not only apply for when you are parked, it also applies for when you are driving! Smash and grabs happen a lot at robots in South Africa, so be sure to keep your valuables in the boot or under the seat.

      -          Don’t pull over or stop your car at night! In South Africa, criminals have come up with multiple ways to get victims to stop their car at night, but make sure to keep on driving until you get home or to a safe place.

      -          Avoid confrontation with aggressive or abusive drivers. Everyone in South Africa knows that taxi drivers have absolutely shocking driving skills. Always remain calm, even if they make you mad – never confront them!

      -          Maintain a safe following distance. Taxi drivers will often drive as they please with no regard for the law. Jumping the robots, cutting in between lanes, suddenly stopping on the side of the road and many other things that may shock you.