January 2008

Throughout 2007, the traffic fines project continued to demand significant resources, time and effort from the association and its members. Although progress may seem incredibly slow – even seeming to go backwards at times – SAVRALA has been able to ensure that the concerns of the industry are related to the correct authority. Furthermore, that these concerns are continually raised and addressed at every possible opportunity.

In brief, SAVRALA’s engagement at a very high level with the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) resulted in the formation of a Technical Committee for Services and Procedures (TCSP) which the association has used as the primary vehicle to make progress regarding industry issues.

After successfully negotiating a good arrangement with the Road Traffic Management Corporation, our hopes were shattered when the TCSP decided not to ratify the agreement. We are nevertheless persevering in engaging constructively with the authorities and we have been promised that our latest representations will be discussed at their next meeting to be held in November 2007.

The TCSP has issued guidelines and requirements which are difficult, if not impossible, for SAVRALA members to comply with albeit that they consistent with existing legislation. The association has presented alternative recommendations some of which have been accepted. The association continues to explore alternative avenues to address the recommendations that were rejected.

Prior to the full implementation of the new fines system, the Metros continue to collect fines, using an ever-changing and inconsistently applied set of rules. The scale of the problem is enormous with some estimates indicating that the car rental industry receives one fine for every three vehicles per month!

Given the inconsistency shown by the Metros, the implementation of ENaTIS will be beneficial for the industry – subject to the resolution of when the liability for the fine will transfer – which the car rental industry believes should be when the fine is redirected. To get approval on this is a key objective for SAVRALA.

SAVRALA and the Department of Transport (are discussing an interface between ENaTIS and the systems used by members to enable them to further improve the efficiency and application of the new system.

(2008-01-SAV-Traffic fine update)