Highway Code: What Every Driver Needs to Know

If you’re behind the wheel in South Africa, the Highway Code is your best friend. It tells you what’s allowed, what isn’t, and how to avoid costly mistakes. Forget long legal jargon – we’ll break it down into bite‑size pieces you can use today.

Basic Road Signs You Must Spot

The first thing anyone learns is the language of road signs. A red circle means stop or give way, a blue square signals a mandatory direction, and yellow triangles warn about hazards ahead. If you see a white diamond with a black arrow, that’s a lane‑use sign telling you which lane to stay in. Knowing these at a glance saves time and prevents accidents.

Don’t overlook temporary signs at construction sites either. They often use orange backgrounds and flashing lights – they’re there because the usual rules don’t apply for a short stretch. Slow down, follow the arrows, and keep an eye on workers. It’s not just polite; it’s the law.

Common Driving Mistakes and How to Fix Them

One big mistake is assuming you can speed up when the road looks empty. The Highway Code sets clear limits for a reason – stopping distance changes with speed, and you never know when a car will appear from a side street. Stick to posted limits and you’ll stay safe.

Another slip‑up is not using mirrors correctly. Before changing lanes, glance left, right, then check the blind spot by turning your head quickly. It only takes a second but can prevent a near‑miss.

If you’re new to roundabouts, remember: yield to traffic already in the circle, signal when you exit, and keep a steady pace. Jumping in too fast or stopping inside the roundabout creates chaos and may earn you a fine.

Finally, don’t forget that pedestrians have the right of way at crosswalks. Even if there’s no one visible, slow down as you approach a crossing. A quick stop can avoid a serious incident and keep your record clean.

Following these simple pointers keeps you within the Highway Code and makes every trip smoother. The rules exist to protect everyone on the road – yourself, other drivers, cyclists, and walkers.

When you’re ready to dive deeper, check out official PDFs from the Department of Transport or local driving schools. They often have cheat‑sheets that list speed limits for each road type, sign meanings, and penalties for common offences. Keep one in your glove box for quick reference.

In short, treat the Highway Code like a toolkit: use the right tool at the right time and you’ll drive confidently. Stick to the basics, stay alert, and enjoy the ride.