Towing a trailer, caravan not as simple as you think
It is assumed by many drivers that by passing their driver’s test, they are automatically qualified to tow anything, and while this was once the case, it has not been for a long time.
POLOKWANE – With the school holidays starting soon, many roads across South Africa will see an influx of traffic.
Many families will use this break to get away, with many motorists taking their trailers, boats or caravans with them.
But, unknown to many motorists, the driver’s licence states what the vehicle is permitted to tow.
It is assumed by many drivers that by passing their driver’s test, they are automatically qualified to tow anything, and while this was once the case, it has not been for a long time.
According to the Automobile Association (AA) of South Africa, this changed in 2000 when government changed to the credit card type driving licences.
Since then, all new standard driving licences issued are only code B licences. What this means is that a code B licence allows a motorist to tow a light luggage trailer weighing less than 750kg (fully laden). To tow a heavier trailer, caravan or boat, a code EB licence is required.
The law does not make provision for a simple upgrade from the code B to the code EB licence. Motorists who want a code EB licence must retake the learner’s licence test and repeat their driver tests, with a trailer weighing more than 750kg.
Of concern is that many people don’t realise that they are towing illegally, states the AA. Besides the legal implications, motorists will falsely believe they are covered by their insurance in the event of a crash, while the reality is that these claims may be declined.
“We urge everyone to check their licences before setting off this holiday to make sure they are legally allowed to tow, and if they aren’t, to make arrangements to ensure they comply with the regulations,” the AA advised motorists.
