10 Fast Facts About Driving in South Africa

10 Fast Facts About Driving in South Africa

10 Fast Facts About Driving in South Africa

South Africa is a popular tourist destination for people from all over the world. Unlike the UK and Europe, we don’t have an extensive public transport network which means that your only option will be car hire in South Africa. But, before you get behind the wheel though, there are some things you should know about road culture in South Africa.

  1. We Drive on the Left

There are actually a lot of countries that drive on the left (Australia, New Zealand, Ireland, UK, Japan) so we’re not that weird after all.

  1. Get Ready for Traffic Jams

Traffic Jams are horrific in peak hours. This is partly because our public transport is non-existent and flexible working hours are still a foreign concept.

  1. Watch out for People Running over the Highway

While the signs clearly say that no pedestrians are allowed on the highways, it simply doesn’t discourage people to cross at any time.

  1. You’ll Share the Road with Taxi Drivers – Beware

While not all taxi drivers are alike, many of them either don’t understand the road rules or choose to ignore them.

  1. You Will Encounter Road Rage at Least Once

Congested roads equal road rage. Don’t give in to the rage when someone forgets to signal that they’re coming into your lane and then flipping you off for being in the way.

  1. In Johannesburg People Drive Too Fast, in Cape Town, They Drive Too Slow

Or at least, that’s what Capetonians say about Joburgers and vice versa.

  1. All Signs Are Written in English

At least you’ll know where you’re going.

  1. Toll Roads Are a Thing

That is if you pay to use the road. Make sure you enter the right lane for cash or card payments.

  1. It’s Illegal to Talk on the Phone While Driving

Like any other country, it’s illegal to talk on the phone while driving. If you get caught, it will set you back R2500.

  1. It’s Not a Good Idea to Pick up Strangers for a Lift

South Africa does have a bit of a reputation when it comes to crime. Don’t pick up hitchhikers, always keep your doors and windows locked and don’t leave valuables in plain sight.

For a quote on affordable car hire South Africa, get in touch with the team at Xtreme Car Rental today.