Drunk driving, speeding and a lack of law enforcement are among the biggest safety problems on Mzansi’s roads during the festive period.
This is according to drivers asked by the Automobile Association (AA) in a recent survey.
The survey also found that only 8% of motorists felt safe while travelling on Mzansi roads over this period.
According to the results of the poll, conducted early this month, 62% of motorists regard drunk driving as the biggest problem on the country’s roads.
Apart from speeding and a lack of police, the survey found that motorists believe unlicensed drivers also pose a major problem.
Results from the survey seem to confirm this belief as a staggering 60% of motorists said their safety was reliant on the attitude of other road users.
About 27% of drivers said they didn’t feel safe as the roads they used needed upgrading or repairs.
“Another worrying element we found was that motorists say that they drive an average of three hours before stopping to take a break.
“We would encourage all drivers to change this by stopping every two hours or 200km to refresh and relax.
“Being tired behind the wheel is extremely dangerous. Make sure that you maintain focus for the whole journey,” said the AA.
According to the AA being drowsy was as bad as driving drunk.
The AA urged all drivers to remain as alert as possible, especially as 66% of respondents who said they were going away indicated they would be travelling between 501km and 1 500km over the holidays.
The AA said as soon as maintaining focus on the road becomes difficult, motorists should stop to stretch legs and get fresh air.
“Motorists must obey the rules of the road, drive responsibly and respect other road users for a happier festive season,” said the AA.