Aarto’s Demerit Points System: Essential Information for Business Owners
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JIMMY MOYAHA: This discussion is brought to you by Fines4U, your partner in simplifying compliance with the Aarto [Administrative Adjudication of Road Traffic Offences Act] across the country. With the impending implementation of the new demerit system, it’s crucial to address any unpaid fines you may have or those that may be accruing.
We will explore how the latest updates in the Aarto system might impact us as consumers. I’m joined online by Cornelia van Niekerk, the owner and director of Fines4U, to delve into this topic and unpack its implications.
Cornelia, it’s a pleasure to have you on the show. Thank you for joining us. Let’s begin with a brief overview of what Fines4U offers.
CORNELIA VAN NIEKERK: Fines4U specializes in managing traffic fines for both individuals and businesses. With your consent, through a mandate form, we can check your fines across South Africa and apply for reductions.
Fines4U has challenged Aarto in high court cases in 2012, 2015, and 2017 when we found it not adhering to its own regulations, and we emerged victorious.
This is how I am able to withdraw or seek reductions for these fines. I’m pleased to report that we are now fully compliant and effectively handling these fines.
JIMMY MOYAHA: Cornelia, the Aarto system impacts companies a bit differently, especially those with fleets of vehicles and multiple drivers. What unique challenges might these companies face regarding fines under the new system?
CORNELIA VAN NIEKERK: One significant issue we’re encountering is companies seeking reductions, paying fines, and then passing the costs onto their drivers. Under the new Aarto Act, fines must be nominated or redirected to the driver responsible, as the officials need to track who will lose the demerit points.
If a company doesn’t transfer the fines to the driver, it will face penalties and potentially lose points.
This applies not only to companies but also to individuals, as parents often take loans to buy vehicles for their children in their names. It’s essential for everyone to transfer fines to the responsible driver.
JIMMY MOYAHA: Thankfully, Fines4U assists both companies and individuals. I know you have a portal system that centralizes information. How does this ease the process for individuals, including those who might own businesses?
CORNELIA VAN NIEKERK: We have two systems in place. One allows us to check fines through various traffic department portals across South Africa. We receive overnight updates and communicate with either the company or the individual.
For larger companies with fleets, you can view and manage your fines through our portal without disclosing sensitive information like ID or license numbers. It’s a business extension that allows you to perform the necessary actions.
In the past, if you wanted to redirect fines, you were burdened with paperwork and uncertainty about the status of your requests.
Now, when you submit through us, we’re connected with the RTMC [Road Traffic Management Corporation] and NaTIS [National Traffic Information System]. We get instant feedback on the success of the submission and receive the new fine details.
A ’02’ Aarto fine, which is a camera offence, transforms into a ’05’ once we change it to the designated driver. This allows you to print the fine immediately and track demerit points, as it’s essential for companies to monitor their drivers’ records.
The process is quick, efficient, and saves a lot of time, ensuring that everything is managed effectively.
JIMMY MOYAHA: Cornelia, you’ve mentioned that you’re sometimes able to negotiate reductions with the relevant authorities. Can you explain how that process works, as well as any associated administrative fees for these services?
CORNELIA VAN NIEKERK: Currently, there are two systems for fines.
We operate under the Criminal Procedure Act, where summonses are issued for unpaid fines, and we can petition prosecutors for reductions. We submit a mandate along with the reasons for our request, acknowledging any guilt on certain fines and asking for consideration.
For Aarto fines, a reduction can be requested if paid within 32 days.
By this time next year, Criminal Procedure Act fines will no longer exist; everything will transition to the Aarto framework.
Fines will be uploaded to NaTIS, enabling you to view all outstanding fines on a single platform.
At present, I can assist across South Africa in seeking reductions, with the ability to withdraw certain fines particularly in Johannesburg and Pretoria. Our charge for reducing, withdrawing, or redirecting a fine is R80.
JIMMY MOYAHA: There you have it, folks—a new approach to managing your traffic fines in light of the Aarto system and the associated demerit points we all wish to avoid. We’ll conclude our conversation on that note.
Thank you, Cornelia, for your insights and for sharing your time with us. Cornelia van Niekerk, owner and director of Fines4U, has joined us to discuss how to navigate your traffic fines amid evolving regulations.
This conversation was brought to you by Fines4U.
Fines4U is South Africa’s foremost agency for traffic offence assistance. Starting December 1, the Aarto demerit points system will be operational nationwide. If your business or drivers are unprepared, you risk losing licenses, vehicle registration capabilities, and peace of mind. Don’t wait until penalties accumulate.
With Fines4U, ensure fines are assigned to the appropriate drivers and maintain compliance. For 19 years, Fines4U has simplified fine management to be quick, efficient, and legal. Contact us via WhatsApp at 082 449 2274 or visit www.fines4u.co.za.
Brought to you by Fines4U.
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