Motorists are urged to exercise extreme caution and prioritise road safety as thousands of South Africans are expected to travel over the Heritage Day long weekend.
The long weekend coincides with school closure, and many families are expected to use the opportunity to travel, visit relatives and take part in holiday activities.
Traffic volumes are therefore expected to increase 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.
“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,” the Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC) said.
Heritage Day is celebrated annually on 24 September and recognises and celebrates the nation's cultural wealth.
All road users are encouraged to play their part in preventing crashes and ensuring that everyone reaches their destination safely.
All road users are urged to:
- Obey speed limits and adjust their speed according to road, traffic and weather conditions.
- Never drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
- Avoid using mobile phones while driving.
- Ensure that all occupants wear seat belts at all times.
- Take regular breaks during long journeys and avoid driving when tired.
- Maintain a safe following distance from other vehicles.
- Exercise additional caution around pedestrians, cyclists, motorcyclists and children, particularly in residential areas and around recreational facilities.
- Ensure that children are properly secured in appropriate child-restraint systems.
- Avoid dangerous overtaking and obey traffic signs and road markings.
- Check tyres, brakes, lights, windscreen wipers and fluid levels before travelling.
-SAnews.gov.za
