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QuizTraffic rulesSouth Africa

This interesting quiz helps you test your knowledge in a clear and visual way. With easy multiple-choice questions, you can quickly build confidence and learn new facts while keeping it simple, interactive, and fun.

Traffic signs
Traffic rules
South Africa
True/false 17 South Africa 23 Car controls 109 Dashboard lights 40 Priority rules 9 Pedestrians 19 Cyclists 20 Show all 590
What should you do when driving near animals?

501. What should you do when driving near animals?

Sound your horn to make them move away.
Flash your headlights repeatedly to warn them.
✓ Slow down and be ready to stop.
Maintain speed if they remain beside the road.

Animals can move unpredictably. Slow down, stay alert, and be prepared to stop safely.

Animals near moving road traffic
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What does this vehicle-control symbol indicate?

502. What does this vehicle-control symbol indicate?

Air recirculation.
✓ Windscreen wiper speed.
Windscreen washer.
Automatic headlights.

This symbol relates to the windscreen wipers. The control allows the driver to select an appropriate wiping mode or speed for the amount of rain and visibility conditions.

Windscreen-wiper control for adjusting wiping speed
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
When should a passenger get on or off a motorcycle?

503. When should a passenger get on or off a motorcycle?

While the motorcycle is moving slowly.
✓ When the motorcycle is stationary and the rider is ready.
Whenever the passenger feels ready.
Before the rider has balanced the motorcycle.

A passenger getting on or off can shift the motorcycle's balance suddenly. The motorcycle should be stationary and stable, and the passenger should wait until the rider is ready and prepared to support the extra movement.

Passenger getting onto a stationary motorcycle
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if your vehicle begins to drift onto the shoulder?

504. What should you do if your vehicle begins to drift onto the shoulder?

✓ Ease off the accelerator and steer back smoothly when safe.
Steer back onto the road as quickly as possible.
Keep driving on the shoulder until the road becomes wider.
Brake firmly before returning to the road.

If you drift onto the shoulder, avoid sudden steering or braking. Slow gently and return to the road smoothly when it is safe.

Vehicle drifting towards the road shoulder
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What is a danger of driving a petrol or diesel vehicle with the boot or tailgate open?

505. What is a danger of driving a petrol or diesel vehicle with the boot or tailgate open?

✓ Exhaust fumes can be drawn into the passenger compartment.
The boot warning light may remain on.
The vehicle can become too heavy at the rear.
The rear window demister may stop working.

Driving with the boot or tailgate open can allow exhaust gases to be drawn into the vehicle. Exhaust fumes may contain carbon monoxide, which is poisonous and may be difficult to detect. Keep the luggage compartment properly closed while driving whenever possible.

Open vehicle tailgate and exhaust-fume risk
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
How should luggage or other cargo be carried in or on a vehicle?

506. How should luggage or other cargo be carried in or on a vehicle?

Loosely in the boot so it can move a little.
Loosely in the passenger area for short journeys.
Anywhere, as long as the vehicle is not overloaded.
✓ Securely, within load limits, without blocking visibility or lights.

Unsecured or overloaded cargo can affect steering and braking, injure occupants during sudden stops, or fall into the road. It must not obstruct the driver's view or vehicle lights.

Luggage and cargo carried in a vehicle
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

507. What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

✓ Engine-temperature warning.
Engine-management warning.
Low washer fluid.
Oil-pressure warning.

This symbol indicates that the engine coolant temperature is too high. If it illuminates while driving, stop safely and allow the engine to cool before investigating the cause.

Engine-temperature warning symbol on the dashboard
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
When should you use rear fog lights?

508. When should you use rear fog lights?

When driving on an unlit road.
When driving on high-speed roads at night.
When another vehicle is following closely.
✓ When visibility is seriously reduced by fog or similar conditions.

Rear fog lights are very bright and should only be used when visibility is poor enough to require them.

Rear fog lights used in severely reduced visibility
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should you never reverse or make a U-turn inside a tunnel unless directed?

509. Why should you never reverse or make a U-turn inside a tunnel unless directed?

Tunnel ventilation works only in the normal direction of travel.
✓ It can cause a serious collision with approaching traffic.
A U-turn can confuse the tunnel's traffic monitoring system.
The tunnel may be too narrow for the vehicle to turn.

Other drivers may not expect a vehicle to reverse or turn around. Only change direction when instructed by police or tunnel staff.

Vehicle manoeuvring inside a road tunnel
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do before using a pedestrian crossing?

510. What should you do before using a pedestrian crossing?

✓ Make sure it is safe to cross.
Rely on the crossing markings to make every vehicle stop.
Check only the lane nearest to you before crossing.
Cross once a driver makes eye contact with you.

Even at a pedestrian crossing, make sure approaching drivers have seen you and are able to stop before you cross.

Pedestrian checking traffic before using a crossing
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should a motorcyclist do in strong crosswinds?

511. What should a motorcyclist do in strong crosswinds?

✓ Reduce speed and be prepared for sudden gusts.
Accelerate to get through the windy area quickly.
Make sudden steering movements whenever the wind changes.
Ride as close to the edge of the road as possible.

Strong crosswinds can push a motorcycle sideways and sudden gusts can affect its stability. Reduce speed, keep a steady grip on the handlebars and allow extra space, especially on exposed roads, bridges, or when passing gaps and large vehicles.

Motorcyclist riding in strong crosswinds
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should you check your mirrors before braking?

512. Why should you check your mirrors before braking?

✓ To know what is happening behind you.
To shorten the distance needed to stop.
To check whether your brake lights are working.
To check whether the road surface is slippery.

Checking your mirrors helps you understand what is happening behind you and anticipate how following traffic may react. In an emergency, do not delay necessary braking.

Driver checking following traffic before braking
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What does turning a traditional ignition switch to OFF normally do?

513. What does turning a traditional ignition switch to OFF normally do?

Releases the parking brake.
Selects accessory power.
Operates the starter motor.
✓ Switches off the engine and ignition systems.

Turning a traditional ignition switch to OFF switches off the engine and ignition systems. The key can then normally be moved to the LOCK position and removed.

OFF position on a traditional ignition switch
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should you keep your windscreen clean?

514. Why should you keep your windscreen clean?

✓ To see the road clearly.
To reduce fuel consumption.
To prevent windscreen damage.
To make the headlights brighter.

A clean windscreen gives you a clear view of the road, signs, pedestrians, cyclists, and other vehicles.

Cleaning a windscreen to improve the driver's view
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should hard braking be avoided while a motorcycle is leaning in a bend?

515. Why should hard braking be avoided while a motorcycle is leaning in a bend?

It makes the motorcycle turn more sharply.
It increases tyre pressure immediately.
✓ It can reduce stability and available tyre grip.
It can make the engine overheat.

When a motorcycle is leaning, the tyres are already using grip to turn. Hard braking can demand additional grip and may reduce stability. Whenever possible, adjust speed before the bend and use smooth, controlled inputs while cornering.

Motorcycle leaning while travelling through a bend
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should you avoid driving through deep water?

516. Why should you avoid driving through deep water?

Driving through deep water is always prohibited.
Deep water makes the engine use too much oil.
✓ It can damage your vehicle or make you lose control.
Increase speed to maintain full control through the water.

Deep water can damage the engine, reduce braking ability, hide hazards, or cause the vehicle to lose grip. Reduce speed, assess the depth and conditions carefully, and avoid entering the water if you are unsure it is safe. If necessary, stop and use another route.

Deep water covering part of a road
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What is the clutch biting point?

517. What is the clutch biting point?

The point where the engine switches off.
The point where the parking brake releases.
✓ The point where the clutch begins to transmit power to the wheels.
The point where the clutch pedal is fully pressed.

The clutch biting point is reached as the clutch pedal is released and the clutch begins to transmit power from the engine to the transmission. Controlling this point helps the driver move off smoothly.

Clutch-pedal control when moving off
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should heavy items be placed low and evenly distributed?

518. Why should heavy items be placed low and evenly distributed?

To reduce wear on the engine.
To reduce fuel consumption.
✓ To help keep the vehicle stable.
To increase the available luggage space.

A high or uneven load can make the vehicle unstable, especially during braking, cornering, or sudden steering.

Heavy luggage positioned low in a vehicle
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

519. What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

Dipped headlights.
Charging-system warning.
✓ Exterior-light failure.
Engine-management warning.

This symbol indicates a possible failure of an exterior vehicle light, such as a headlight, tail light, brake light or indicator. Check the vehicle's exterior lights and replace or repair any faulty light.

Exterior-light failure warning symbol on the dashboard
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why is it dangerous to drive through standing water at speed?

520. Why is it dangerous to drive through standing water at speed?

✓ The tyres may lose contact with the road.
The steering becomes more responsive.
The water can increase tyre pressure.
The suspension becomes firmer at higher speed.

Driving too fast through water can cause aquaplaning, where the tyres lose grip and the driver may lose control.

Vehicle travelling through standing water
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Which signs may indicate that you are becoming too tired to drive safely?

521. Which signs may indicate that you are becoming too tired to drive safely?

Listening to quieter music.
Wanting to adjust the cabin temperature.
Feeling comfortable and relaxed.
✓ Yawning, heavy eyelids, and difficulty concentrating.

Warning signs of driver fatigue can include repeated yawning, heavy eyelids, difficulty concentrating, wandering thoughts, and trouble maintaining a steady road position. These signs mean you should stop and rest before continuing.

Driver showing signs of fatigue
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
How should a motorcyclist brake in an emergency?

522. How should a motorcyclist brake in an emergency?

Grab the front brake as suddenly as possible.
Release both brakes before stopping.
Steer sharply while braking hard.
✓ Apply both brakes firmly and progressively.

During emergency braking, use both brakes firmly and progressively while keeping the motorcycle as upright and stable as practical. Avoid sudden steering. If ABS is fitted, maintain firm braking pressure and allow the system to work.

Motorcyclist making an emergency stop
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should you avoid removing the coolant cap while the engine is hot?

523. Why should you avoid removing the coolant cap while the engine is hot?

✓ Pressurised hot coolant may escape and cause serious burns.
The cooling fan could stop working.
The coolant level may become harder to read.
Opening it can reduce the engine oil pressure.

A hot cooling system may remain under pressure. Allow the engine to cool and follow the manufacturer's instructions before checking or adding coolant.

Coolant cap and the risk of hot pressurised coolant
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should you avoid changing lanes inside an intersection?

524. Why should you avoid changing lanes inside an intersection?

It can make your route through the junction longer.
✓ It can confuse other road users and increase collision risk.
It can make road markings harder to follow.
It can reduce the effectiveness of your indicators.

Changing lanes inside an intersection can surprise drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians. It is safer to choose the correct lane before entering.

Vehicle changing lanes within a junction
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do before crossing the road?

525. What should you do before crossing the road?

Listen for vehicles instead of looking.
Cross if the nearest vehicle is slowing down.
Follow another pedestrian without checking yourself.
✓ Look for traffic in all directions.

Always check for approaching traffic from every direction before crossing.

Pedestrian checking for traffic before crossing
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should you check for motorcyclists before changing lanes?

526. Why should you check for motorcyclists before changing lanes?

Motorcycles need more road space than cars.
Motorcyclists must stop when a car changes lanes.
Motorcyclists are required to stay beside the kerb.
✓ Motorcycles can be harder to see and may be in your blind spot.

Motorcyclists are smaller and can be hidden in blind spots. Check mirrors, signal, and look carefully before changing lanes.

Motorcycle near a vehicle preparing to change lanes
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Should rear-seat passengers be securely restrained?

527. Should rear-seat passengers be securely restrained?

Only when travelling on motorways or at higher speeds.
✓ Yes, using seat belts or suitable child restraints as appropriate.
No, only front-seat occupants need to be restrained.
Only if the vehicle does not have rear airbags.

Rear-seat passengers should be securely restrained using seat belts or suitable child restraints as appropriate. Proper restraint reduces the risk of serious injury and prevents occupants from being thrown around or forwards in a collision.

Rear-seat passengers secured for a journey
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
How should you use the clutch and accelerator when moving off?

528. How should you use the clutch and accelerator when moving off?

Press the brake and accelerator together.
✓ Release the clutch smoothly while applying the accelerator progressively.
Release the clutch suddenly without using the accelerator.
Keep the clutch fully pressed while accelerating.

When moving off, release the clutch pedal smoothly through the biting point while applying the accelerator progressively. This helps the vehicle move away smoothly without stalling or excessive engine speed.

Coordinating the clutch and accelerator when moving off
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why is riding a bicycle after drinking alcohol dangerous?

529. Why is riding a bicycle after drinking alcohol dangerous?

A helmet protects you from alcohol-related risks.
✓ Alcohol can reduce your balance, coordination, judgement, and reaction time.
Alcohol affects driving more than cycling.
Cycling after drinking is safe on quiet roads.

Alcohol can make it harder to balance, steer, judge distances, and react to hazards. Riding a bicycle while impaired may also be against the law.

Alcohol consumption and bicycle-riding safety
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Which foot normally operates the brake and accelerator in a manual vehicle?

530. Which foot normally operates the brake and accelerator in a manual vehicle?

The left foot for the brake and right foot for the accelerator.
The left foot.
Either foot.
✓ The right foot.

In a manual vehicle, the right foot normally operates both the brake and accelerator pedals, while the left foot operates the clutch.

Pedal arrangement and foot controls in a manual vehicle
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should you use headlights in poor visibility?

531. Why should you use headlights in poor visibility?

To keep the windscreen clear.
To make the brakes respond faster.
✓ To see better and be seen by others.
To reduce fuel consumption.

Headlights help you see the road and make your vehicle more visible to other road users in fog, rain, darkness, or poor weather.

Vehicle using headlights in reduced visibility
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do before entering a roundabout?

532. What should you do before entering a roundabout?

Stop before every roundabout, even when it is clear.
Enter first if you reach the roundabout before other traffic.
✓ Slow down and give way when required.
Enter without giving way if you are going straight ahead.

Before entering a roundabout, reduce your speed, observe traffic, and give way according to the local rules.

Vehicle approaching a roundabout
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do when entering a roundabout?

533. What should you do when entering a roundabout?

Stop and wait until the roundabout is completely empty.
Enter if there is space, even if other traffic must slow down.
✓ Slow down, give way when required, and enter only when safe.
Enter if another driver appears to be slowing down.

When approaching a roundabout, reduce your speed, observe traffic, follow the signs and local priority rules, and enter only when it is safe.

Vehicle at a roundabout entrance
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should you hold the steering wheel firmly during strong gusts?

534. Why should you hold the steering wheel firmly during strong gusts?

To reduce braking distance.
To make the power steering work better.
✓ To maintain control if the vehicle is pushed.
To improve tyre grip.

A firm but relaxed grip helps you respond safely to sudden changes caused by wind.

Driver holding the steering wheel during strong gusts
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Does opening a window make an alcohol-impaired driver safe?

535. Does opening a window make an alcohol-impaired driver safe?

Yes, if you also drink some water.
✓ No, fresh air does not remove alcohol from the body.
Yes, if you feel more awake afterwards.
Yes, because fresh air helps you sober up.

Fresh air may make someone feel more awake, but it does not reduce their alcohol concentration or restore safe driving ability.

Open car window and an alcohol-impaired driver
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should you leave extra space when passing road workers?

536. Why should you leave extra space when passing road workers?

Road workers are protected by the construction barriers.
Road workers always have priority over passing traffic.
To keep construction dust away from your vehicle.
✓ They may be working close to moving traffic.

Workers may be only a short distance from passing vehicles. Reduce speed and leave as much safe space as possible.

Vehicle passing workers close to the road
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
How can air conditioning help demist the windows?

537. How can air conditioning help demist the windows?

By heating the rear window directly.
✓ By removing moisture from the air.
By opening the windows automatically.
By increasing air recirculation.

Using the air conditioning can help demist the windows because it removes moisture from the cabin air. Directing this drier air towards the windscreen can clear condensation more quickly.

Air-conditioning controls used to demist the windscreen
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What is the button on a manual handbrake lever used for?

538. What is the button on a manual handbrake lever used for?

✓ To release the handbrake mechanism.
To apply the service brakes.
To select reverse gear.
To unlock the steering.

To release a manual handbrake, pull the lever up slightly, press and hold the release button, then lower the lever under control.

Release button on a manual handbrake lever
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

539. What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

✓ Engine-management warning.
Charging-system warning.
Diesel particulate filter warning.
Oil-pressure warning.

This symbol indicates a fault detected by the engine-management or emissions-control system. If it remains illuminated while driving, the vehicle should be checked according to the manufacturer's instructions.

Engine-management warning symbol on the dashboard
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if a child runs onto the road ahead?

540. What should you do if a child runs onto the road ahead?

✓ Brake firmly and be prepared to stop.
Sound your horn and continue driving.
Flash your lights instead of slowing down.
Accelerate to pass before the child moves further into the road.

Children can act unpredictably. Brake firmly, stay alert, and be prepared for more children to follow.

Child entering the road ahead of a vehicle
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you normally do before selecting D or R in an automatic vehicle?

541. What should you normally do before selecting D or R in an automatic vehicle?

Switch off the engine.
Apply the parking brake only.
Press the accelerator pedal.
✓ Press and hold the brake pedal.

Before selecting D (Drive) or R (Reverse), keep the brake pedal pressed to prevent the vehicle from moving unexpectedly when the gear is engaged.

Holding the brake before selecting an automatic driving gear
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should you switch on dipped headlights before entering a tunnel?

542. Why should you switch on dipped headlights before entering a tunnel?

✓ To improve visibility and help other road users see you.
To reduce fuel consumption.
To prevent the tunnel lights from becoming too bright.
To keep the windscreen from misting.

Tunnel lighting may be much darker than daylight. Dipped headlights help you see and make your vehicle more visible.

Vehicle using dipped headlights before entering a tunnel
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should you wear suitable footwear when driving?

543. Why should you wear suitable footwear when driving?

So the vehicle uses less fuel.
So the brakes respond more quickly.
✓ So you can operate the pedals accurately and safely.
So the pedals require less force to operate.

Suitable footwear helps you operate the accelerator, brake, and clutch accurately. Loose, bulky, or slippery footwear can interfere with pedal control or become caught around the pedals.

Driver's footwear and contact with the pedals
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Speed limits only apply when there is heavy traffic.

544. Speed limits only apply when there is heavy traffic.

✓ False.
True.

Speed limits apply at all times unless a different limit is clearly indicated.

Speed-limit sign beside a road
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should you take extra care when crossing a tram or bus lane?

545. Why should you take extra care when crossing a tram or bus lane?

Cars always have priority over trams and buses.
Trams and buses must always stop before crossings.
✓ A tram or bus may approach quickly.
These lanes are usually free from moving traffic.

Check carefully before crossing or entering a tram or bus lane. Trams cannot steer around obstacles, and both trams and buses may need significant distance to stop.

Traffic crossing a lane used by public transport
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if your vehicle begins to skid on ice?

546. What should you do if your vehicle begins to skid on ice?

Press the brake pedal hard and hold it.
✓ Ease off the accelerator and steer smoothly in the direction you want to travel.
Apply the parking brake to straighten the vehicle.
Accelerate sharply to regain traction.

Avoid sudden braking or steering. Look where you want to go and use gentle controls while the tyres regain grip.

Vehicle skidding on an icy road
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should cyclists do when riding over loose gravel or road debris?

547. What should cyclists do when riding over loose gravel or road debris?

Brake hard while turning.
✓ Reduce speed and steer smoothly.
Keep the same speed as on a dry, smooth road.
Make quick steering movements to avoid loose stones.

Loose material reduces tyre grip. Smooth steering and controlled speed lower the chance of losing balance.

Cyclist riding over loose gravel
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do when your view is blocked at a junction?

548. What should you do when your view is blocked at a junction?

Look only in the direction traffic normally comes from.
✓ Slow down and proceed carefully.
Follow the vehicle ahead without checking yourself.
Drive through quickly before other traffic appears.

If your view is blocked, slow down and make sure the way is clear before entering the junction.

Restricted view of approaching traffic at a junction
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do when following a cyclist on a narrow road?

549. What should you do when following a cyclist on a narrow road?

Overtake as soon as your vehicle can fit past.
✓ Keep a safe distance and overtake only when there is enough space.
Pass even if you cannot leave much space.
Drive close behind until there is room to pass.

Cyclists may need to avoid potholes, drains, or wind gusts. Keep distance and only pass when you can leave plenty of space.

Vehicle following a cyclist on a narrow road
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do before making a turn?

550. What should you do before making a turn?

Rely on other road users to slow down for you.
Signal only after you begin turning.
Check only the traffic directly ahead.
✓ Check mirrors, signal, and make sure it is safe.

Before turning, check your mirrors, use your indicator, and make sure the turn can be made safely.

Driver preparing to turn at a junction
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA