WCape blue lights regulations published

Draft regulations restricting on the use of blue lights and sirens in the Western Cape have been released for public comment, transport and public works MEC Robin Carlisle said on Sunday.

   

The draft regulations were published in the Government Gazette on Friday, Carlisle said in a statement.

   

They provided that escort vehicles could use sirens or flashing blue lights only if "there is an imminent identified threat regarding the safety or life of the office bearer or VIP, or there is a threat of damage to the property of the office bearer or VIP",  he said.

   

Carlisle said this was in line with the National Road Traffic Act, which allowed office bearers and VIPs to use cars fitted with blue lights and sirens.

   

"We have seen the abuse of blue light brigades by said office bearers and VIPs in the past, tantamount to a disregard for the rule of law and a threat to the safety of other road users," he said.

   

"As per the draft regulations, office bearers and VIPs may not make use of blue lights or sirens on their vehicles or vehicles escorting them, unless the situation is one that constitutes a case  of emergency."

   

He said failure to comply could result in a fine or imprisonment.

   

The public has 30 days to comment on the draft regulations.

   

"We cannot continue to have the safety of other road users threatened unnecessarily by the use of blue lights and sirens in non-emergency situations," Carlisle said.

   

-Sapa