The City of Cape says its Traffic Fines roadshows continue to impress, with the last two events delivering higher returns than the four previous roadshows. In a statement, it has labelled this a sign that the concept of the ‘one stop shop’ is what’s driving its success.
It has been noted that four roadshows between December 2023 and July 2024 attracted 7,387 motorists who made 69,979 representations in terms of outstanding fines and warrants. These fines and warrants were reported to be valued at just over R21,5 million.
The two most recent road shows in Parow and Lentegeur saw 6,489 motorists in attendance with 70,650 representations to the value of R28,5 million.
According to the Mayoral Committee Member for Safety and Security, JP Smith, the increased returns are directly linked to growing public awareness of the roadshows.
” – the fact that they can handle numerous queries in one trip, there is no threat of arrest and overall, the experience is less intimidating and formal than petitioning the courts,” added Smith
Smith added that the City’s traffic fine income has increased in recent years, and the popularity and ease of doing business that comes with the roadshows has played a role.
The roadshows have also noted an increase in so-called ‘runners’ braving the long queues. These are either persons acting on behalf of other individuals or proxies representing companies.
Smith says fleet drivers and public transport operators do tend to amass the highest number of fines and warrants, and a roadshow is an easier way to deal with a large number of fines or warrants.
“So, even if attendance isn’t sky-high, it is the number of representations and the fine value that are indicators of success. We are grateful to everyone involved in bringing the roadshows to life, but the ultimate prize will always be fewer transgressions and safer roads for all,” added Smith
The City’s Traffic Service has reminded motorists and the public that the roadshows are an added value service, and that there are numerous existing channels through which they can check and pay fines.
