Keep safe on the roads this Easter

There are always many deaths on the road during the festive seasons, despite efforts by police forces to crack down on law breakers.

Don’t become a statistic, rather follow these simple tips to keep you and you family safe this long weekend:

Ensure that your vehicle is in a roadworthy condition before departure by checking tyres, windscreen and all essential liquids for the car to run.

Do not overload the vehicle.

Try to avoid driving after dark if possible.

Have a good rest before you embark on your journey and have an energy drink by your side.

Make sure to take safety breaks/rest stops every two hours or 200km.

Be visible – drive with your lights on.

Headlights should be dipped well before an approaching vehicle is within range of the main beam.

Always wear your seatbelt and check to see that everyone in the car is wearing theirs.

Drive defensively with a focus on safety for all road users.

Stay within the speed limit at all times.

Only overtake when it is absolutely safe to do so. When in doubt – Don’t.

Do not text and drive. Rather place your cellphone in the boot if the temptation is too strong.

Maintain at least a two second following distance – this distance should be increased at night, in foggy or rainy conditions and when the road is wet.

Be courteous towards fellow road users – keep your temper and resist the temptation to retaliate as road rage has caused serious consequences over the last year.

Be alert to changing road and weather conditions.

Don’t ever drink and drive – you’ll lose either your life, licence or freedom.