FATAL crashes so far this festive season have claimed more than 845 lives around South Africa. So said Transport Mnister Dipuo Peters on Saturday, who added that human factors had been the main cause of the road crashes.
The Minister appealed to motorists to ensure they reached their destinations safe. She said while government would do all in its power to improve road safety by developing and enforcing laws and providng safer roads, road safety was ultimately a shared responsibility. “Every person who uses the roads has an obligation to act safely and internalise sound road safety norms and values,” she said.
She advised motorists to heed the following:
* Make sure your vehicle is roadworthy and registered.
* Don’t drink and drive at all.
* Don’t speed.
* Don’t drive when tired.
* Do not use your cellphone while driving, it is dangerous.
* Drive as if you are driving for others – be constantly aware of your surroundings and drive defensively.
* Distracted driving is a killer – do not text while driving.
* If you experience a break-down, park as far left of the roadway as possible and keep watch for little children who may wander onto the road.
* During wet or inclement weather increase your following distance, keep headlights on to increase visibility, check wiper blades and tyres to cope with slippery roads. Ensure your demister is working.
* Road rage is a reality – do not be the cause thereof and do not be a perpetrator.
* Always be mindful of your braking distance and blind spots.
* Using seat belts reduces the risk of fatal or serious injury in a crash considerably.
* Only overtake when it is safe to do so.
At night, drive with your headlights on and ensure that your brake lights and indicators are in a working condition.
* Keep a safe following distance when travelling.
* Do not slow down at a crash scene.
* Be responsible, considerate, and patient at all times.
