Speed and Alcohol Limits
- 1/30Driver enters a residential zone with a 60 km/h sign
This is the maximum speed allowed from the sign onward. Driving over the limit is a punishable offense. Always reduce speed near homes and schools.
Vehicle moves into a 100 km/h zone on a rural road
This limit applies from the point of the sign. Exceeding it can risk accidents or prosecution. Adjust speed based on weather and visibility.
Speed limit of 120 km/h shown on a freeway
Highways allow higher speeds, but only under safe conditions. Remain aware of vehicles ahead and road surface conditions.
Night-time speed limit board indicates 100 km/h
Reduced night speed limits account for lower visibility and fatigue. Even with fewer vehicles, the risk of hazards is higher at night.
A temporary 40 km/h sign appears at roadworks
Temporary signs override permanent ones during hazards like construction. Slowing down protects workers and prevents road damage.
A sign shows “Speed limit enforced by camera”
Speed enforcement signs alert drivers to automatic penalties. Maintain constant legal speed to avoid camera-triggered charges.
Driver enters a tunnel with headlamp and speed sign
Headlamps improve visibility inside tunnels. Obey posted limits due to narrow lanes and lower lighting conditions.
Police stop a driver suspected of alcohol use
Drivers may undergo alcohol testing during stops. Over-the-limit readings may result in arrest, fine, or license suspension.
At a late-night checkpoint, alcohol signs are posted
DUI enforcement increases during night hours and weekends. Avoid drinking before driving to stay safe and legal.
Driver under medication feels drowsy on the road
Even prescribed medication can impair driving. Defensive drivers avoid roads when drowsy or mentally impaired.
Vehicle ahead swerves erratically in lane
Swerving suggests possible alcohol use or fatigue. Stay back, signal if necessary, and report if danger persists.
A rural road shows alternating speed limit signs
Road conditions may vary, requiring flexible limits. Stay alert and obey each change in speed markings.
Rain reduces visibility on a 120 km/h freeway
In bad weather, posted limits become upper limits. Reduce speed and increase following distance for control.
You feel pressured to speed by tailgaters
Let aggressive drivers pass when safe. Do not break laws due to pressure. Safety and legality come first.
Highway has frequent signs of camera monitoring
These areas are actively monitored. Stay consistent with limits and avoid sudden braking near known cameras.
Speed limit drops suddenly near a hospital zone
Hospital zones require quiet and safety. Follow limit reductions early and avoid hooting or engine revving.
A friend suggests driving after two drinks
Even small amounts impair reaction time. Choose alternate transport, wait it out, or refuse to drive.
You’re unsure of your legal alcohol limit
In South Africa, low limits apply but can still impair driving. It’s safest to avoid any alcohol before driving.
Motorist leaves a party and feels “okay to drive”
Feeling okay isn’t a reliable indicator. Alcohol affects judgment. Plan in advance to avoid DUI risks.
Vehicle’s speedometer is faulty and unreadable
Estimate safe speeds using traffic flow and engine response. Repair the gauge before long trips or high-speed roads.
Entering a construction zone with 80 km/h limit
Construction zones have narrow lanes, cones, and workers. Follow signs and watch for unexpected lane changes.
Approaching a school with flashing 30 km/h sign
School zones need extra caution. Children may run into traffic unexpectedly. Obey signs especially during school hours.
Passenger encourages you to “floor it” on open road
Peer pressure shouldn’t override laws or safety. Speeding increases accident risk and legal consequences.
Passing through a rural village with no signs visible
If no sign is posted, standard urban limits apply. Be cautious of pedestrians and animals crossing.
Seeing another driver speeding dangerously
Let unsafe drivers go. Defensive driving means preventing risks and reporting only when necessary.
Entering downhill slope with no speed change sign
Downhill slopes increase speed naturally. Use engine braking and avoid coasting in neutral.
Tires screech while taking curve at 90 km/h
Speed must be reduced before turns. Screeching indicates loss of grip and possible oversteer. Slow down and stabilize.
Reaching a zone with combined speed and camera warning
In such zones, fluctuating speed may trigger enforcement. Stay steady and aware of limit changes ahead.
A taxi speeds past in a 60 km/h zone
Let other vehicles violate laws if they choose. You must maintain speed limit and report only if it’s dangerous.
Overtaking signs indicate limited distance available
Exceeding limits while overtaking is illegal. Ensure enough space and time before passing another vehicle safely.