SA demerit system to be rolled out next year
In April, all drivers will be subjected to the demerit system for traffic infringements and offences.
THE much talked about demerit system is headed our way and reports suggest that it will be implemented by April 2016.
The system is aimed at penalising drivers and operators who are guilty of infringements or offences by imposing demerit points.
A maximum of 12 points will lead to suspension and eventual cancellation of driver’s licenses, professional driving permits or operator cards.
Each driver starts out with zero points and points are given for each infringement or offence committed by the driver.
After the maximum points (12) have been reached, the licence card will be suspended for 32 days.
The number of points/demerits added will depend on the severity of the offence and the driver may apply for the return of the licence once the suspension period expires.
A driver whose licence is suspended for the third time will lose his/her licence permanently and will have to reapply for testing and issue after the expiry of the disqualification period.
According to the new system ,drivers who have demerit points will be able to redeem their points with good behaviour as points will be reduced at a rate of one point per three months that a driver complies with the rules of the road.
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