Module 2: Rules of the Road

Driving safely starts with knowing and following the rules of the road. These laws are there to keep everyone safe: drivers, passengers, and pedestrians alike. In South Africa, the driving rules follow the K53 system, which tests your knowledge, observation, and responsible road use. This module breaks down those rules simply so you can understand not just what to do, but why it matters.

1. Core K53 Road Rules Explained Simply

The K53 driving system teaches defensive driving, meaning you’re always aware of what’s happening around you. Every decision you make behind the wheel must consider safety, awareness, and courtesy.

Key K53 Habits:

• Look — Always check mirrors, blind spots, and surroundings.

• Signal — Use indicators before every move (turn, lane change, stop).

• Move — Only when it’s safe.

General Driving Rules:

• Keep left of the centre line at all times, unless overtaking.

• Always overtake on the right, never on the left (unless traffic is turning right and it’s safe).

• Always wear a seatbelt, it’s the law for both driver and passengers.

• Never use a handheld cellphone while driving.

• Obey speed limits, road signs, and traffic lights at all times.

• Do not stop, park, or reverse on freeways (unless it’s an emergency lane).

Tip: The K53 system rewards smooth, aware driving, not speed or confidence. Examiners want to see calm, controlled, and observant behaviour.

2. Intersections, Traffic Circles & Right-of-Way

Intersections are high-risk areas where most road accidents occur. Understanding right-of-way prevents confusion and collisions.

At Stop Streets:

• Stop completely behind the white line.

• Look right → left → right again before moving.

• The vehicle that stops first goes first; if two stop at the same time, the vehicle on the right goes first.

At Traffic Lights:

• Green = Go only if the road is clear.

• Amber = Prepare to stop (not speed up).

• Red = Stop completely.

At Traffic Circles (Roundabouts):

• Yield to traffic already in the circle.

• Always enter from the left and go around clockwise.

• Signal left when exiting the circle.

Tip: In South Africa, reckless and impatient drivers may ignore rules, always assume others may not yield, and drive defensively.

3. Overtaking & Lane-Change Rules

Passing another vehicle requires good judgment and awareness. Unsafe overtaking is a leading cause of head-on collisions in SA.

Safe Overtaking Steps:

1. Check your mirrors and blind spot.

2. Signal right.

3. Move out only when the road ahead is clear for at least 150 meters.

4. Do not exceed the speed limit while overtaking.

5. Return left as soon as you can see the overtaken vehicle clearly in your rear-view mirror.

6. Signal left before returning to your lane.

Do NOT Overtake:

• On a solid line or near a blind rise or corner.

• At or near pedestrian crossings, junctions, or railway lines.

• When another vehicle is already overtaking you.

Remember: It’s better to arrive late than not at all. If you’re unsure, don’t overtake.

4. Speed Limits for Different Roads

Speed limits are not only about law, they are about safety. They vary depending on the type of road and vehicle you drive.

Urban / Town areas: 60 km/h — City streets, residential roads

Rural roads: 100 km/h — Open roads between towns

Freeways: 120 km/h — N1, N2, N3, etc.

Near schools / hospitals: 40 km/h (often marked) — School zones, hospital roads

Note: Always look for posted speed limit signs, especially in rural areas where limits can drop suddenly for villages or construction zones. In South Africa, speed cameras and traffic officers frequently monitor highways, fines can be expensive.

5. Seatbelt & Cellphone Regulations

Seatbelt Rules:

• The driver and all passengers must wear seatbelts — front and back seats.

• Children under 3 years must use an approved child restraint or baby seat.

• It’s illegal to carry passengers in the back of a bakkie for reward (unless licensed).

Cellphone Rules:

• It’s illegal to hold a cellphone while driving — including texting or checking maps.

• Use hands-free kits or pull over safely if you must make a call.

• Fines range from R500 to R1,000 depending on the province.

Tip: Distracted driving is one of the fastest-growing causes of road accidents in South Africa.

6. Understanding Road Users

Pedestrians, Cyclists & Motorcyclists:

• Always yield to pedestrians at crossings or intersections.

• Give cyclists and motorbikes at least 1 metre of space when overtaking.

• Be especially careful in townships or rural areas, where children or livestock may cross suddenly.

Minibus Taxis & Public Transport:

• Taxis are part of daily life in South Africa, expect sudden stops or lane changes.

• Always keep a safe following distance.

• Never try to “race” a taxi, rather slow down and give space.

Tip: Learning to anticipate others’ mistakes is key to surviving South African traffic.

7. Legal Responsibilities & Penalties

As a licensed driver, you are legally responsible for your actions on the road. Breaking traffic laws can lead to fines, licence suspension, or even arrest.

Common Offences and Penalties (Dependent on where and when), but you can expect:

• Speeding: R250–R2,000 (depends on speed & area)

• Not wearing a seatbelt: R1,000 fine

• Using a cellphone: R500–R1,000 fine

• Driving without a licence: Up to R4,000 fine or court appearance

• Drunk driving: Arrest, criminal record, license suspension

Tip: The legal alcohol limit in South Africa is 0.05 g per 100 ml of blood, but the safest limit is zero.

Module Recap

• Always follow K53 habits: look, signal, move.

• Know right-of-way at intersections and circles.

• Never overtake on solid lines or near corners.

• Obey speed limits.

• Always wear your seatbelt, never use your phone.

• Respect all road users, especially pedestrians and taxis.

• Stay within the law — drive safe, not just legal.