So, you’re thinking about renting a car in Durban? Good choice! Whether you’re visiting for business or a holiday – we’ve got a few tips for when taking tyres to tar in one of our affordable rental cars. Here’s what to keep in mind when renting a car in Durban…

Zero Tolerance Policy

While you might be able to knock back a beer or two and get behind the wheel in other parts of the world, the KwaZulu-Natal government has a strict zero-tolerance stance on drinking and driving.

This means that, should you be stopped at a roadblock or by a roadside traffic cop in your rental car, and you test positive for alcohol in your system – you’re spending at least one night in jail.

Don’t let this deter you from having a good time, though! There are many ‘drive-me-home’ services in Durban that you are able to call and request a pickup through. They’ll drive you home and ensure your car is stored safe and sound!

Average Speed Prosecution

In Durban, we have a mix of both speed trap cameras and average speed cameras. Speed trap cameras are usually painted green or yellow and feature a square head with two round camera lenses protruding out. If you’re travelling more than about 8km/h over the speed limit when passing one of these, you’ll be in for a traffic fine.

Average speed cameras, on the other hand, do not catch you immediately – but rather track your speed over a section of roadway. If you’re over the speed limit, on average, you’ll be fined. Average speed cameras are much smaller than speed trap cameras, usually resting on overhead steel structures.

We Drive on the Left-Hand Side

South Africa is one of a minority of countries that still drive on the left-hand side of the road. This might be a little confusing at first, but you’ll get the hang of it before long!

When driving your rental car in Durban, be sure to keep left, passing on the right when two lanes are available. Remember to keep a safe following distance at all times, especially when driving in the rain.

Driving After Dark

When driving in and around Durban, keep in mind that the darker it gets – the higher the risk of hijacking. If you’re driving your rental car at night, remember to keep your doors locked, windows closed, and remain vigilant at all times. The difference between driving your rental car, and watching a car thief drive off with your rental car, is literally a few seconds of distraction.

Renting a Car in Durban

Need a rental car in a hurry? Highway Bakkie Hire offers passenger rental vehicles and rental bakkies (pickup trucks) in the Durban area. Book your rental car here, or get in touch with us here for more information on rental car safety in Durban.