RoadworksSouth Africa
Traffic rules
South Africa
1. Roadworks
Roadworks are construction, maintenance, repair or inspection activities carried out on or beside a road. They may temporarily change the road layout, lane widths, speed limits, priority, permitted directions and facilities for pedestrians or cyclists.
Drivers must follow the temporary signs, traffic lights, barriers, road markings and instructions from authorised personnel. They should reduce speed, increase their following distance and remain prepared for narrow lanes, stopped traffic, workers, machinery and sudden changes in the route.
What should you watch for when approaching roadworks in South Africa?
Look for temporary warnings, cones, barriers, narrow lanes and construction vehicles. Road layouts can change temporarily, including lane shifts, traffic-light control and short one-way sections. Expect workers and slow or stationary traffic near the worksite.
🔗 transport.gov.za • South Africa, Department of Transport, SARTSM — road-works
Is a temporary speed limit at roadworks binding in South Africa?
Where an authorised temporary regulatory speed limit is in force, you must obey it. A roadworks warning alone should not be mistaken for a new numerical limit, but conditions may require driving more slowly.
🔗 transport.gov.za • South Africa, Department of Transport, SARTSM — road-works
What if only one lane remains open through roadworks in South Africa?
Follow the temporary signals, stop/go instructions, lane arrows and priority signs. Do not enter an opposing traffic lane until permitted, and give vulnerable road users and road workers extra room.
🔗 transport.gov.za • South Africa, Department of Transport, SARTSM — road-works
