Do you know your rights at a road block?

Authorities usually increase patrols during the festive season in order to control traffic flow and decrease the rate of crime on our roads. Road blocks are conducted regularly but most drivers are uncertain about their rights when stopped or confronted with suspicious police behaviour.

ALSO READ: About roadblocks… 

Public relations manager from Automobile Association of South Africa, Layton Beard advised that motorists should know their rights while driving.

•  First you need to remain calm and comply with all the reasonable instructions of the police or traffic officers
• You have a right as a citizen of the country to see the police’s certificate of appointment which includes his picture, name, rank, force number and where stationed
• If these details are not given you have a right to ask to see a senior officer at the scene
• If you doubt the authenticity of the roadblock, you can ask to be taken to the closest police station
• Motorists should treat any officer with respect and the dignity attached to his/her rank
• You should identify yourself as the driver and supply proof of your driving licence
• A traffic officer cannot force you to pay unpaid or outstanding traffic fines; they only have the right to detain you if they can show a legitimate warrant of arrest or a valid copy
• If the police cannot show you a warrant copy, you have the right not to be arrested.

Beard emphasised that motorists should ensure that they are treated fairly and it was their right to ask why they were pulled over.

WARNING: Law enforcement officials on patrol this weekend 

Details: Automobile association of South Africa, press@aasa.co.za