Driver’s licence points system revived

The Department of Transport has revived discussions around the implementation of the demerit points system (DPS) after two collisions that claimed the lives of 12 people on KwaZulu-Natal’s roads at the weekend.

The system is intended to discourage motorists from disobeying the law by placing their privilege to drive in jeopardy if they repeatedly flout the law.

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Transport MEC Siboniso Duma touched on the DPS after Friday’s collision between a truck and a seven-seater light motor vehicle that claimed the lives of seven high school pupils on the N2 near Mandeni.

Duma said he has tasked the head of department and the chief director of the Road Traffic Inspectorate (RTI) to furnish him with a report on the state of readiness around the implementation of the DPS.

“While I understand that the demerit points system for road traffic infringements is set to kick-in in September 2025, I believe KZN needs to move with speed and ensure we implement it swiftly across the province,” said Duma.

“We commit to working with the Road Traffic Infringement Agency to administer the demerit points system as part of zero tolerance.

“Importantly, we are eager to get the system up and running as part of improving road safety by discouraging repeat traffic offences and encouraging better driving habits.”

Sustaining critical injuries, the driver of the truck survived the crash and was receiving treatment at a Richards Bay hospital.
The memorial service and funeral for the victims will take place on Saturday and Sunday.

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