MISA supports zero percent blood alcohol legislative amendments
3 September 2026
MISA, the Motor Industry Staff Association, commends Transport Minister Barbara Creecy for putting her money where her mouth is by proposing legislative amendments to Section 65 of the National Road Traffic Act, which will enforce a zero percent blood alcohol limit for drivers.
This is a critical milestone in South Africa’s fight against road carnage. Between March and August 2026, more than 18,000 motorists were arrested for drunken driving, accounting for a third of all traffic arrests. Close to 12 000 lives are lost on South Africa’s roads annually, with the Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC) estimating that alcohol contributes to at least 27% of these fatalities.
Creecy informed Organised Labour of her plan in March when she addressed the annual National Economic Development and Labour Council (NEDLAC) Organised Labour School. The Minister pointed out that it is a known fact that even a small amount of alcohol diminishes your ability to act.
She emphasized that Government aims to halve annual road fatalities by 2030, in line with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. Recent campaigns have already shown progress, with fatalities declining by 9% compared to 2025. The Minister stressed that “every life lost represents the loss of a loved one, a parent and a breadwinner,” underscoring the urgency of stronger measures.
Martlé Keyter, MISA’s Chief Executive Officer: Operations, says a zero percent blood alcohol policy will send a clear message that no amount of alcohol is safe behind the wheel.
“MISA supports the Minister in her attempts to ensure that every South African can travel without fear of losing their life to preventable negligence. This initiative is not only about compliance but is about protecting families, workers and communities.”
It is important to note that this policy is still in the legislative process. The Transport Ministry’s immediate timeline focuses on drafting and securing approvals, with Cabinet concurrence targeted by the end of 2026. Formal implementation will only follow once Parliament has debated the bill and opened it for public comment. While the policy may not be enforced this year, the process to amend the legislation has officially begun.
Issued by Sonja Carstens, Manager of MISA’s Media & Communication Department, on behalf of the Union. For press enquiries, contact Phakamile Hlubi-Majola at 083 367 6417 or email [email protected].
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