JMPD on Vehicle Safety in Johannesburg: Check Your Car or Get Fined

The Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD) has launched a strict campaign to enforce vehicle roadworthiness and safety compliance across the city. This initiative aims to reduce road accidents caused by defective vehicles and ensure safer roads for all users.

RELEVANT ARTICLE: JMPD Launches Campaign to Enforce Roadworthy Compliance

JMPD’s Roadworthy Compliance Campaign

Starting June 2025, JMPD officers have intensified roadside inspections to verify that vehicles meet all safety requirements. Officers will prohibit vehicles with three or more defects found during traffic stops from operating on public roads, reflecting a zero-tolerance approach to unsafe vehicles.

The campaign includes regular roadblocks and inspections targeting unroadworthy vehicles. JMPD warns that it will continue implementing stricter measures to remove dangerous vehicles from Johannesburg’s roads.

Common Vehicle Defects Targeted

The JMPD focuses on critical safety components such as:

• Tyres: Inspecting for wear, punctures, and uneven tread
• Brakes: Checking for functionality and unusual noises
• Lights: Ensuring headlights, brake lights, indicators, and hazard lights are operational
• Windshield wipers and washer fluid: Maintaining clear visibility during adverse weather
• Suspension: Looking for signs of wear that affect vehicle control

Authorities urge drivers to conduct regular maintenance and pre-trip checks to avoid fines and potential vehicle impoundment.

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Importance of Vehicle Safety Checks

Regular vehicle inspections help prevent accidents caused by mechanical failures. The Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC) emphasises road safety education and awareness to reduce crashes, injuries, and fatalities on South African roads.

Post-vacation vehicle checklists, such as those recommended by DEKRA, include thorough inspections of tyres, brakes, fluids, lights, and suspension. These checks are especially crucial after long trips or seasonal changes to ensure vehicles remain roadworthy.

Key Points from Arrive Alive on Vehicle Roadworthiness and Safe Driving:

In‑Vehicle Safety

• Seatbelts & airbags: Always check that seatbelts and clips function properly, and ensure you enable the curtain airbags.
• Child safety: Drivers must secure children under 4 years in properly installed car seats, and they must ensure that older children and all passengers wear seatbelts.
• Loose items: Secure all items and pets inside the vehicle—they can become dangerous projectiles in a crash.

Exterior & Load Security

• Body panels & accessories: Confirm that panels, hitch, trailers, etc., are firmly attached.
• Fastenings & hinges: Inspect catches, latches, and hinges for rust, wear, or damage.
• Loading: Avoid overloading your vehicle.
• Exhaust system: Check for leaks—faulty exhausts hurt performance, increase fuel consumption, and pose health risks.

Emergency Preparedness

• Spare tyre & tools: Ensure the spare tyre is inflated, in good condition, and that jack and tools are complete.
• Charged phone: Have a charged phone with saved emergency contacts and a working charging cable.
• Warning triangle: Drivers must use warning triangles during breakdowns and place them at least 45 meters behind the vehicle.
• Emergency kit: Keep a comprehensive kit (first aid, water, etc.) accessible in the car.

Penalties and Enforcement

JMPD has made it clear that they will fine drivers of non-compliant vehicles, and they may immediately remove vehicles with multiple defects from the road. This enforcement supports national efforts to improve road safety and protect all road users.

How Drivers Can Prepare

• Perform routine vehicle maintenance and safety checks
• Address any defects promptly at certified service centres
• Use professional services like DEKRA’s Condition Report for comprehensive assessments
• Stay informed about JMPD’s regulations and enforcement updates

Road Safety

JMPD’s campaign to enforce vehicle safety in Johannesburg underscores the critical role of roadworthy vehicles in preventing accidents. By checking your car regularly and addressing defects, you avoid fines and contribute to safer roads for everyone.