Safety tips for motorists to keep in mind this Easter
The AA says it is every single road user’s responsibility to be safe on the roads during this long weekend period.
Easter is nearly here and many South Africans will be taking a well-deserved break and travelling to various destinations around the country.
“The Easter long-weekend has traditionally been disastrous as far as road crashes and road fatalities are concerned. To prevent this annual carnage, road users must be vigilant and focused when on the roads,” said the Automobile Association of South Africa.
“Just because you’re not driving doesn’t mean you’re not a road user. Passengers, commuters, pedestrians, cyclists, people riding motorbikes, and even people selling products on the road are all road users. Along with electronic devices, drink, drugs and distraction are all dangerous to all road users.”
ALSO READ:
Make road trip memories this Easter
If you are going to be on the road over the Easter weekend, here are some tips from the AA:
• Rest before you travel. Do not make a long journey if you are tired. While on the road, stop every two hours or 200 kilometres to stretch, and get fresh air.
• Put all non-essential electronic devices away when you are driving. Use your cell phone only when you have to, not when you want to. Don’t text and drive.
• Ensure everyone in the vehicle wears their seatbelt.
• Obey all the rules of the road.
• Be courteous to other drivers.
• The speed limit is not a target to be attained. Respect it.
• Do not overtake when it is illegal or unsafe to do so.
• If you are a cyclist or riding a motorbike, also make yourself visible and ensure all protective clothing (including the helmet) are in good condition.
• If you are a pedestrian, walk where it is safe and also make yourself as visible as possible. Wear reflective vests, sashes or other items of clothing to make yourself stand out (especially at night on dimly or badly lit roads).
• Do not drink or drive.
• Respect traffic law enforcement, they are there to ensure your and other road users’ safety.
• Enjoy your drive and arrive safely at your destination.
• Whether you are an AA Member or not, download the AA app to ensure fast, reliable and secure service when you are on the road, not only from a vehicle point of view but also in terms of personal security through AA Armed Response.
ALSO READ:
Heavenly Easter mango desserts
In addition, the AA encourages those going on vacation to make the journey part of their trip, and to get off the main roads and to explore South Africa.
But, it says, wherever road users find themselves over the Easter weekend, they must be alert and careful.
“South Africa has a horrendous road safety record, and it doesn’t get better annually. While there are many things the government must do to improve road safety, it’s also the responsibility of road users to play their role.
“Without a conscious effort by road users to be safe, no actions by the government will ever work,” concludes the AA.
Have a story?
Contact the newsroom by emailing: Thelma Koorts (editor) brakpanherald@caxton.co.za or Stacy Slatter (news editor) stacys@caxton.co.za
Remember to visit the Brakpan Herald on the following social media platforms:
Follow us:
