A screenshot from a video showing the driver standing on the door ledge as the vehicle moves.
Image: Screengrab from video
The driver featured in a viral video performing a dangerous "no-driver" stunt on a KwaZulu-Natal public road has handed himself over to the Road Traffic Inspectorate (RTI) in Pinetown.
The video, which was shared on the KZN Department of Transport’s official Facebook page, showed the driver using one hand to steer the vehicle which is in motion which he dances on the driver's side door ledge, a move that drew swift condemnation from provincial authorities.
The MEC for Transport and Human Settlements, Siboniso Duma, confirmed on Wednesday that the individual had been questioned by the RTI to determine the necessary legal and administrative steps.
In a media statement, MEC Duma noted that while the act was a flagrant violation of road safety, the driver appeared to be remorseful.
"We welcome the fact that the driver is remorseful," Duma said. "He regrets his action and is prepared to reshape his life for the better."
A screengrab from the video shared by the Transport department shows the driver steering the vehicle while he is outside on the door ledge.
Image: Screengrab from video / KZN Department of Transport
The MEC said that the stunt occurred on a public road governed by the National Road Traffic Act 93 of 1996, emphasising that such behaviour endangers not only the driver but all road users.
Duma issued a stern warning to motorists regarding the growing "culture of disrespect" for traffic regulations.
He highlighted several key safety mandates that were ignored during the stunt. Regulations strictly forbid any part of a person's body from protruding beyond a vehicle while it is in motion.
A driver must be positioned to exercise full control of the vehicle at all times. Drivers are required to maintain a complete and unobstructed view of the roadway and traffic ahead.
"Our hardworking RTI and Operation Shanela teams have a responsibility to protect motorists, passengers, and other road users from harm," the MEC added.
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