Yeah, here in Northern New Mexico it's well known that you're taking your life in your hands to ride a roadie. And don't worry, every effort will be made to clear the drivers of fault for any accidents they cause, so there will be no effect on their behavior.
I recommend trading that road bike in for a gravel bike, or sticking to MTBs...
I don't think that it has anything to do with honor. If there is a good way to get yourself killed in SA, it's probably messing with SA Rugby honors. They do not take that as a joke.