Schools across South Africa officially close for 2023 this week and the holidays will bring an expected increase in traffic volumes on the country’s major routes.
This means road users will have to ensure they are vigilant and focused on the road,” a statement from the AA read. The Automobile Association (AA) again urges all motorists, passengers and pedestrians to be responsible and play their part in making holiday traffic safer.
“Traditionally this is an extremely dangerous time to be on our roads; fatalities over this period spike, especially on those routes where volumes increase substantially. All road users should be aware of these increases to traffic volumes and adjust their behaviour accordingly.”
And if you haven’t already done so, now is a good time to have your vehicle inspected, especially if you’re planning on a long trip. A 125-point check can be performed at all AA Auto Centres and AA Quality Assured Centres.
“A mechanically sound vehicle, with tyres that are in good condition, is essential to ensuring a safe journey,” the association says. “If you have any doubt as to the quality and condition of any part of your vehicle, check it out before you leave. This counts for any other vehicle you may be towing, such as a trailer or caravan. Having AA membership, and access to the AA app, is equally important, but not needing to use the services should be your priority.”
Apart from this, the AA said a good attitude while on the road is vital.
“Law-enforcement efforts will intensify during the holiday period, but it’s still the responsibility of every road user to be courteous to others and observe the rules of the road. Speed limits are not targets and seat belts are not just accessories. Drivers, pedestrians, cyclists, and even those on motorbikes should not use electronic devices and everyone, including front passengers, should focus on the road. Unless everyone makes an effort to be safe on our roads our country’s woeful road-safety statistics will not improve.”
Personal safety should also be consideration for travellers, especially as there are still many reports of motorists being targeted, physically harmed and robbed of their possessions. The AA advised travellers to plan their routes carefully, to monitor radio and social media reports for road conditions and potential hazards on their routes, and to take extra precautions for long journeys.
“Using personal security devices such as the AA’s Rem-I device is an excellent way of providing an extra layer of security for your and your family’s personal safety.
“The holiday period is a time for family and friends, and every measure should be taken to ensure you arrive safely at your destination, and back home again. Taking a chance with unroadworthy vehicles and tyres is not worth the risk and could lead to serious consequences for you, your family, and other road users.”
For more information on the 125-point check, visit https://aa.co.za/aa-auto-centre/.
