Businesses urged to keep closer eye on traffic fines as AARTO kicks in
Updated Aug. 10, 2026, 3:03 p.m. | By Nomfundo Twala South African companies and motorists are being urged to prepare for stricter traffic fine enforcement…
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Updated Aug. 10, 2026, 3:03 p.m. | By Nomfundo Twala
South African companies and motorists are being urged to prepare for stricter traffic fine enforcement under the new AARTO system, with businesses facing significant consequences if they fail to identify drivers responsible for offences.
Speaking during a media briefing on Monday, Fines4U owner Cornelia van Niekerk said companies will no longer be able to simply pay traffic fines without identifying who was behind the wheel.
Van Niekerk warned that businesses which fail to nominate the correct driver could face fines that are three times higher.
Once the AARTO demerit point system is fully operational, companies could also be affected by points accumulated through traffic offences.
She said businesses need to start preparing now, particularly those operating large fleets where vehicles are regularly shared between employees.
“You must have a system in place, because you must nominate the correct driver to get the points and to get the fine.”
According to Van Niekerk, companies can no longer rely on simply deducting the cost of a fine from an employee's salary without establishing who was actually driving the vehicle.
Van Niekerk also warned motorists and companies against assuming that a fine can be ignored simply because it was never received by post.
She said businesses should appoint someone to monitor outstanding fines through the relevant systems instead of relying solely on postal notifications.
She warned that motorists and companies also need to familiarise themselves with the offences and penalties under the new traffic enforcement system, including circumstances where vehicles could be confiscated.
With growing concern over outstanding fines, Van Niekerk urged motorists to be cautious of fraudulent messages demanding payment through links.
She said motorists should verify their fines through the official government AARTO platform rather than clicking on links sent via messages or emails.
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