There's nowhere to hide from fines

In the new Aarto system, real-time data integration means your driving record follows you everywhere and nothing goes unnoticed

- WENDY JASSON DA COSTA

BAD drivers won't be able to hide, some might have their licences scrapped and others compelled to undergo “rehab” when a slew of traffic rule changes come into effect next year.

Traffic authorities say that under the new system, any infringements against a motorist’s name will be entered into an online traffic offences register, where drivers can check their own records. Law enforcement officers will also have instant access to the system during roadside stops.

Collen Msibi from the Department of Transport says it’s just one of many initiatives aimed at improving safety on the country’s roads.

“It's basically a register if you want to see the history of your traffic fines. It doesn’t mean that certain people will make it to the list and others won't, everybody will be on that. If you’ve committed a traffic infringement, you will appear on the system. Everything will be on one database,” said Msibi.

These measures fall under the ambit of AARTO, the Administrative Adjudication of Road Traffic Offences. The system, which will standardise how infringements are dealt with nationally, is already running in Tshwane and Johannesburg; the rest of the country will go live in July.

“AARTO means that we are decriminalising the traffic offences system...you won't be arrested, but you'll be blocked from renewing your licence or disc,” Msibi explained.

He said there are several steps in the new system. Firstly, paying a traffic fine within the first 32 days gives motorists a 50% discount. After that period, the full fine must be paid.