DRIVING IN SOUTH AFRICA

South Africa doesn't have the best reputation for safety, but as in many countries it's the cities that are the main problem. Avoid driving in Johannesburg or Cape Town, especially at night.

On country roads you are much less likely to run into trouble, but stay alert. Be wary about stopping if someone flags you down, or if you come across an accident in a lonely part of the bush. If in doubt carry on and alert the police at the next settlement. If you do stop keep your engine running, doors locked and windows closed until you are quite sure of the situation. Carrying a mobile phone (most UK models will work in South Africa) is a good idea.

Main roads are generally well maintained, but watch out for overcrowded minibuses and reckless overtaking. Local drivers expect slower traffic to move onto the hard shoulder to let them overtake, and sometimes expect oncoming vehicles to move over to make room for them too.

Regulations

As in the US, four-way intersections with stop signs are common in towns. The rule is that the first to arrive at the junction has priority. A single yellow line means no parking at any time; a single red line means no stopping. Don't park facing oncoming traffic. Report any accident involving another car to the police within 24 hours.

You may need cash at petrol stations which do not always accept credit cards. Some main highways, tunnels and bridges have tolls, but an alternative route is signposted where the toll begins.

Sudden exit

"Unlike most express roads worldwide, freeways in South Africa do not have deceleration lanes when you exit them. Instead, on the approach to an exit, we have warning boards at 300, 200 and 100 metres. You must reduce your speed at these, as the off ramp invariably has a 90-degree bend just as you leave the freeway." Jim Morrison

 

Robot ahead

If you're asking for directions in South Africa and someone tells you to turn left at the next robot, don't expect to find a Dalek standing at the street corner. 'Robot' just means traffic light

Hiring a car is the ideal way to enjoy South Africa's spectacular scenery

           

Speed limits	Urban	Open road	Motorway
Car	60 kph	100 kph	120 kph
Towing	60 kph	100 kph	120 kph
Traffic regulations
Minimum driving age	18 years
Drink-drive limit	50mg alcohol per 100ml blood
Child in front seat	Min 12 years
Seat Belt	Compulsory in front and rear seats
Motorcyclists	Must wear crash helmet
Emergency telephone numbers
Police	10111
Ambulance	10117

Extracted from Haynes Glovebox guide DRIVING ABROAD by Robert Davies. This authoritive guide provides a wealth of information on all aspects of driving abroad.

Order from www.haynes.co.uk