Be safe on the roads says Mbalula

While on the roads this festive season, motorists are advised to be cautious and adhere to the rules of the road.

Whether it is to visit family or for an annual vacation, road users need to be aware of the ‘fatal 5’.

Earlier this year, former Minister of Transport Fikile Mbalula said that 1 451 people died on SA’s roads during the 2022/23 festive season.

The festive season period started on December 1 and ended on January 11.

Also read: Make defensive driving your ally on the roads this December and beyond

The deaths included motorists and pedestrians.

The five main contributors to deaths were being distracted while driving, alcohol, fatigue, speeding and disregarding road conditions.

According to Wynand van Vuuren, client experience partner at insurer King Price, human error accounts for at least eight out of every 10 road accidents in SA. Those hitting the road this December are reminded to follow the rules.

Advice includes:

Preparing your vehicle
Check the tyres, top up the fluids and do some general maintenance to make sure the vehicle is ready for a long trip.

“Poorly maintained cars raise the risks of accidents significantly. Rather be safe than sorry,” said Van Vuuren.
Avoid distractions

It’s estimated that texting while driving increases your chances of an accident 23 times. Even seemingly harmless behaviours like reading a WhatsApp message can lead to disaster.

Also read: Potholes: repair process, costs and why we have them

“It may take five seconds to read a message. “If you’re driving at 90km per hour, that’s like driving the length of a rugby field with your eyes closed,” said van Vuuren.

Distractions aren’t limited to messages. They include any activity that diverts the driver’s attention from driving,

These include talking on the phone, applying makeup, eating, drinking and smoking and adjusting your radio or navigation system.

During this festive period, motorists should keep their eyes on the road, hands on the wheel and focus on arriving safely.

Don’t drive tired
Fatigue is a major contributor to accidents on our roads.

“Get enough sleep the night before your trip. If you find yourself yawning while driving, pull over and take a break,” said Van Vuuren.

Alternatively, drivers can take turns behind the wheel.

Drive defensively
Watch out for other drivers and pedestrians along the road.

According to the 2022/23 festive season statistics pedestrian fatalities constitute 54% of all fatalities in Gauteng and Western Cape provinces.

“Be alert to road conditions and other road users’ and pedestrians’ unpredictable behaviour,” said van Vuuren.

Keep insurance up to date
While planning the trip ensure the vehicle’s insurance is up to date.

Motorists must have third-party and comprehensive cover and determine if their policy offers accident, roadside and medical assistance

King Price clients can have the additional backup of code red, which allows them to call for armed response or emergency responders.
“Buckle up, don’t drink and drive and stay alert. It’s a jungle out there.”

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