RockfallSouth Africa

An introduction to the traffic rules and road signs of South Africa. Learn about driving, road safety and much more in our illustrated book, with answers to frequently asked questions.

For informational purposes only. Always follow official regulations. Some content and images were created with AI assistance.

Traffic signs

Traffic rules

South Africa

1. Rockfall

A rockfall warning indicates a road section where rocks or stones may fall from a cliff, cutting or steep slope, or where fallen material may already be present on the road. The danger may affect the full carriageway and can appear suddenly.

Drivers should reduce speed, scan the road and slopes ahead, increase their following distance and remain prepared to stop. They should avoid unnecessary stopping in the exposed section and never attempt to move unstable rocks themselves.

Where might falling rocks be a hazard on roads in South Africa?

Pay extra attention around mountain passes, steep road cuttings and coastal cliff routes. After heavy rain, freeze–thaw cycles or work on a steep slope, the hazard may increase depending on local conditions.

🔗 transport.gov.za • South Africa, Department of Transport, SARTSM — rockfall

Does a falling-rocks warning sign in South Africa impose a speed limit?

A falling-rocks sign is a hazard warning, not normally a numerical speed-limit sign. Follow any separate speed or closure signs, slow down to match visibility and conditions, and watch for material already on the road.

🔗 transport.gov.za • South Africa, Department of Transport, SARTSM — rockfall

Warning for falling rocks.

English • W335 • Falling rocks from the left. Rocks may fall from the left side or lie on the roadway.

Sources

🔗 Commons.wikimedia.org
🔗 Transport.gov.za • Department of Transport · SADC RTSM Vol. 1, chapter 3, PDF p. 6 (May 2012)

SVG source: Southern African Development Community • Public domain • Original revision 2017-08-05. Wikimedia original unmodified.

What should you do if rocks are blocking the road in South Africa?

Slow or stop in a safe place away from the exposed slope if possible. Do not drive over unstable debris or stop beneath a cliff unnecessarily. Follow any closure or traffic-control instructions and report a dangerous obstruction through the appropriate road authority or emergency channel.

🔗 transport.gov.za • South Africa, Department of Transport, SARTSM — rockfall