Transport minister Fikile Mbalula announced on 24 January that a 0% blood-alcohol limit will soon come into effect. The new legislation will see an increase in roadblocks and police checkpoints as drivers will not be able to drink alcohol and drive at all. The rule will be enforced from June 2020.
The new law will work in conjunction with the Aarto Act, the driving demerit system that could result in drivers losing their licenses after garnering a certain amount of fines.
Speaking to Cape Talk, chief executive of the Foundation for Alcohol Related Research (FARR), Dr Leana Olivier, said: ‘At the moment there is a lot of confusion about the legal alcohol limit for drivers in South Africa – especially as it differs for professional drivers and normal drivers. A zero-tolerance limit in a country where we have such a major problem with driving under the influence is probably the way to go.’
‘According to the Transport minister (Mbalula), this is going to be properly enforced from June 2020. Serious measures will be put in place including roadblocks and police check-in points in certain sections which still need to be announced. It is going to be enforced so the general public needs to take note of this legislation,’ she said.
If you’re planning on driving anywhere after a night of drinking, keep in mind that alcohol can stay in the system for up to 24 hours.
Image: Facebook / Road Traffic Management Corporation
