News
‘Fines Just Disappearing Is Over’: New Era for Speeding Fines in SAWarrants, Arrests, and AI Cameras
The era of South African motorists’ traffic fines simply disappearing is over.
Barry Berman, CEO of Fines SA, says the law will catch up with motorists who fail to pay their fines for extended periods.
The Technology
Berman explained that South Africa’s traffic fine system no longer relies exclusively on post. Fines remain tied to motorists’ ID numbers and business registration numbers.
“The technology has caught up, and the days of fines just disappearing are definitely long gone.”
“Even if you are not a driver of the vehicle, you may be the responsible person of a fleet. You may get a big surprise.”
AI Cameras
Cameras can now detect poor driver behaviours, including using phones while driving.
“AI cameras have been out for a while. Motorists are quite surprised when they do get these images in the post, if the fines do arrive, because they’re not getting stopped anymore.”
“These cameras are suspended on bridges across South Africa. There are also average speed cameras, so you’re not even seeing the cameras anymore; it’s just taking a picture from one point to another.”
Easter Warning
Berman recommended motorists check whether they have any outstanding traffic fines before leaving for their Easter holiday destinations.
He warned that motorists who have failed to pay outstanding fines could face arrest if their fines have escalated to a warrant.
Aarto vs Criminal Procedure Act
Xolani Fihla, JMPD spokesperson, said that under the Aarto system (currently in effect in Johannesburg and Tshwane), officers cannot arrest motorists for most unpaid fines.
However, motorists should be aware of the differences between Aarto and the Criminal Procedure Act (CPA) , which still applies outside Johannesburg and Tshwane.
Under the CPA, arrest for outstanding fines is a risk if a warrant has been issued.
“If it does say a warrant, then there is a possibility that you will be arrested.”
The Aarto Process
Under Aarto in Johannesburg:
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Enforcement notice issued
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Courtesy letter sent
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Enforcement order issued (blocks licence disc renewal until fines are paid)
Scam Warning
Berman warned motorists to be wary of SMSes claiming they have outstanding finesthey are likely scams and are a “real threat.”
“At Fines SA, we don’t send out SMSes at all.”
The Bottom Line
Fines don’t disappear anymore. AI cameras are watching. Warrants can mean arrest.
Before you hit the road this Easter, check your fines. Because the law is watchingand it’s not letting go.
{Source: Mybroadband}
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