With the long weekend here, Sherry Sibeko from Miway Insurance warns South Africans about the dangers of drunk driving, highlighting the legal and personal consequences that can arise from this reckless behaviour.
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Despite reports that alcohol consumption in South Africa is declining by 30% - nearly twice the global rate of 17%, the recent Easter Weekend saw driving under the influence (DUI) arrests spike 39% compared to the same period last year.
With Freedom Day falling today, many families will have exciting outings and road trips planned. Unfortunately, data consistently shows that these long weekends come with a troubling rise in drunk driving.
South Africans should prioritise their safety over the upcoming long weekend. Driving under the influence continues to be one of the biggest threats to road safety in South Africa. During long weekends and holiday times in general, road fatalities tend to spike, and beyond the immediate danger to lives, driving under the influence can also carry serious legal consequences.
If found guilty of drunk driving in South Africa, you could face up to six years in jail, be liable for fines of up to R120 000, and your driver’s license may be suspended. You will also get a criminal record, which can have serious ramifications for the rest of your life.
In addition to criminal penalties, motorists also face long-term consequences under the Administrative Adjudication of Road Traffic Offences (AARTO) Act, which is already being rolled out across 69 municipalities. The full demerit points system is set to go live on September 1, 2026, meaning repeated offences could ultimately result in the suspension or cancellation of a driver’s licence.
There could also be a direct impact on any insurance claims. Claims linked to accidents where the driver is found to be over the legal alcohol limit are often rejected, leaving motorists to cover significant repair or replacement costs out of pocket, alongside potential third-party liabilities.
For many drivers, the question often comes down to how much is too much, or how much alcohol will put them over the legal limit. The reality is that there is no simple answer. Factors such as body weight, metabolism, food intake, and even fatigue all influence how alcohol is absorbed and processed, making it extremely difficult to determine a safe threshold.
Given these variables, the safest approach is to avoid drinking and driving altogether. Fortunately, there are practical alternatives available to our customers.
After all, it only takes one point over the limit to seal your fate. So, plan on time, book your ride 48 hours ahead, and make responsible safety decisions this Freedom Weekend.
* Sibeko is the executive head of personal lines at Miway Insurance.
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