ROAD accident figures in Mzansi are some of the highest when compared with other countries. And they often happen over holiday periods.
Motorists are urged to drive with caution. Last year alone, road fatalities increased by 14%.
Avoid the peak hour traffic
According to the Bakwena Toll Concession, peak days will be from Thursday to Monday.
Between 2 400 and 2 800 vehicles are expected to pass through Pumulani (between Pretoria and Hammanskraal) and the Carousel toll plazas (between Pretoria and Warmbaths) during peak times.
Peak times on these routes are
- The N1 North-bound and N4 West-ound – Today between noon and 9pm.
Friday between 6am and 10am.
- The N1 Southbound and N4 Eastbound
Monday 22 April between 10:00 and 21:00
Managing director at MasterDrive, Eugene Herbert, advises drivers to choose departure times carefully to avoid traffic jams.
“More cars on the road increases your chances of encountering reckless drivers. Choosing to drive during daylight a day earlier or later can help you arrive safely,” he said.
Seatbelts for children
“Every holiday period we emphasise the importance of buckling up your children. In a collision your child becomes a projectile so be strict,” he said.
Reckless driving
Avoiding peak hour traffic will remove the temptation to speed. Always keep an eye out for drivers who may endanger other road users.
Keep an eye out for speedsters and dangerous overtaking. Slow down to give them extra time or move off the road to avoid a collision.
For the safety of the child and everyone else in the car, children must wear seatbelts, no matter how much they protest,” advises Herbert.
If you are driving to a holiday destinnation this Easter, take the necessary steps to ensure you arrive safely.
