Note to Editors: Please find attached English and Afrikaans soundbites by Cllr Riëtte Dell and Sesotho soundbite by David Masoeu MPL.
The Democratic Alliance (DA) in Setsoto Local Municipality has written to the Municipal Manager to engage Traffic Services and the SAPS to stop the illegal and dangerous use of quad bikes on public roads in Ficksburg.
We acted on ongoing complaints from residents about children driving quad bikes illegally and recklessly on public roads in Ficksburg since October 2025. We have subsequently followed up persistently with officials and supported residents in ensuring that this matter was properly escalated to Community Services, Traffic Services, and the Municipality’s Legal Department.
The Municipality’s Legal Services have now confirmed in writing that, in terms of the National Road Traffic Act 93 of 1996, quad bikes (ATVs) are primarily off-road vehicles and may only be driven on public roads if they fully comply with the law, including registration, licensing, roadworthiness, and being driven by a duly licensed driver.
In most cases, quad bikes do not meet these requirements and are therefore not permitted on public roads.
Legal Services further confirmed that minors driving without a valid licence is an offence, and that parents or guardians who allow this behaviour may be held liable. The Municipality is empowered to act through legal notices, fines, and even the impoundment of vehicles unlawfully operated on public roads.
Parents must also understand the serious financial risk. Medical schemes might cover emergency stabilisation after an accident. However, families may still face high costs thereafter.
Insurance claims may be rejected if illegal or unlicensed driving is involved.
Continued failure to act despite repeated complaints is unacceptable, and if a tragedy occurs after warnings were issued, those who neglected their responsibilities must be held accountable.