New road regs outlaw left hand drive imports

THE MINISTER of Transport has altered the road traffic regulations.
Changes were published in the Government Gazette earlier this month.
For the first time, all vehicles with a gross vehicle mass exceeding 10 000 kg, licensed for the first time after July 1 1999, must be fitted with yellow side and rear retroflective material that complies with SABS specifications.
Other vehicles in the same vehicle class must be fitted with the appropriate material by December 31 2000.
The importation or manufacturing of left-hand drive vehicles is also now prohibited. This applies to vehicles registered for the first time on or after July 1 1999 and applies to: vehicles with a gross vehicle mass (GVM) exceeding 3 500kg; mini buses exceeding 3 500kg; buses, breakdown vehicles and motor vehicles used for conveying passengers for reward.
All other left-hand vehicles registered for the first time after January 1, 2000 will be prohibited.
Changes will also be effected on regulations pertaining to the wheel base of semi-trailers.
Said Deidre Briesch, section manager: traffic legislation: The changes to the road traffic regulations will ensure that vehicle owners will be forced, by law, to comply with the strictest vehicle requirements. The minister of transport continuously reviews regulations to ensure that they are clear and relevant to our South African traffic situation. This enables the department to keep legislation in line with the highest road safety standards possible and to ensure the safety of all road users.
New draft legislation has also been published for comment in the Government Gazette of April 9 1999 making it illegal for motorists to use cell phones while driving.
If approved, the new law will be enforced before the end of the year.
By Anna Cox