Motorists urged to take extra care as holiday travel gets under way - IOL

Motorists and other road users are being urged to exercise caution as thousands of South Africans take to the roads for Heritage celebrations, with heavier traffic expected over the long weekend and school holiday period.

The Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC) said families are expected to use the break to visit relatives and take part in holiday activities, resulting in increased movement on major routes and around popular destinations.

“Motorists are further encouraged to check traffic and weather conditions before departing, allow sufficient time for their journeys and avoid unnecessary risks in an effort to reach their destinations safely. Motorists should also ensure that their vehicles are roadworthy before travelling,” the RTMC said.

“Parents and caregivers are also encouraged to remind children about basic pedestrian safety, particularly when walking near busy roads, shopping centres, public transport facilities, and holiday destinations.”

Motorists have been urged to obey speed limits, avoid using mobile phones while driving, never drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs, and ensure all occupants wear seat belts.

The RTMC also advised motorists travelling long distances to take regular breaks, avoid driving when tired, and maintain a safe following distance. Drivers have further been urged to avoid dangerous overtaking and check tyres, brakes, lights, windscreen wipers, and fluid levels before setting off.

The Gauteng Provincial Government has separately urged motorists, bikers, and cyclists to remain patient and vigilant, particularly around built-up and residential areas and informal settlements.

“Pedestrians are advised to refrain from walking on roads while under the influence of alcohol, to avoid highways, to use pedestrian bridges on busy freeways, and to wear bright or reflective clothing at night,” Gauteng MEC for Roads and Transport Kedibone Diale-Tlabela said.

The province has identified several high-risk routes for targeted traffic-law enforcement, including the N1 between Tshwane and Polokwane, N4 between Tshwane and eMalahleni, N4 between Tshwane and Rustenburg, R573 between Tshwane and Moloto, N1 between Johannesburg and Bloemfontein, N3 between Johannesburg and Durban, N12 between Johannesburg and Potchefstroom, and R59 between Alberton and Sasolburg.

The Gauteng government said pedestrian-vehicle collisions account for 43% of road fatalities, while parents and caregivers have been urged to supervise children when crossing roads, particularly in towns, cities, and townships.

Entertainment venues are also being urged to prioritise the safety of patrons, with Diale-Tlabela calling on those consuming alcohol to make alternative transport arrangements.

“Those who consume alcohol are urged to make alternative transport arrangements by using a designated sober driver, public transport or other safe means of getting home. Under no circumstances should motorists drive while under the influence of alcohol or other substances,” she said.