The requirements set forth by the National Road Traffic Act (NRTA) are crystal clear: drivers must possess valid licenses and Professional Driving Permits (PrDPs) or their SADC country equivalents. Despite this straightforward mandate, a disturbing trend has emerged – a significant number of drivers’ documents we verify are fraudulent. This compromises safety on our roads, a risk we cannot afford to ignore.
For over a decade, we’ve been diligently conducting checks, and the results are staggering. With transport costs soaring, operators are faced with tough choices – often sacrificing essential maintenance, training, and driver checks to cope with financial strain. However, the consequences of employing unlicensed drivers are severe. Insurance claims are frequently repudiated, leaving operators liable for damages that extend far beyond monetary losses.
Thankfully, there is a glimmer of hope. Operators and brokers are beginning to recognize the importance of driver verifications in reducing risk and preventing road accidents. By taking proactive measures, they are safeguarding lives and livelihoods alike.
But why are so many licenses and PrDPs fraudulent, especially when SADC country documents are recognized by the NRTA in South Africa? The reasons are varied, ranging from the prohibitive costs and bureaucratic hurdles of renewal to corruption and the availability of fake documents.
It’s imperative that we address this issue head-on. We cannot afford to turn a blind eye to the prevalence of fraudulent driver’s documents. Awareness and action are key, and collaboration across corporate, private, and public sectors is essential.
At CHECK YOUR DRIVER, our vision is one of preventive action.
We invite you to join us in making a difference by starting the verification process today.
Together, we can ensure that our roads are safe for all who travel them.
The choice is yours – let’s choose safety and accountability.