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The majority of public schools across South Africa have closed for the end-of-year holidays just as the month of December begins and thousands of motorists will, undoubtedly, soon thereafter, be on the roads.
This time of year, going into January next year is said to be the most dangerous time, with more people being involved in fatal road accidents than at any other time. It’s for this reason that the Automobile Association (AA) urges all motorists to ensure that their vehicles are roadworthy and that their attitudes towards driving, especially over long distances, are kept in check.
The AA offers the following pointers for holidaymakers this season:
- Plan your route, including stops and ensure you make provision to stop every 200km or every two hours to rest, refuel and refresh
- Look at the planning of your trip and avoid the rush days when there is bound to be heavier traffic on the roads. If possible, leave a day sooner or a day later
- Buckle up. This includes all passengers, including toddlers under three who must legally be in a car seat and children who are 1,3m in height, or shorter need to be in booster seats
- Obey all the rules of the road and drive according to the conditions of the road. If the road is marked 120km but visibility is poor, decrease your speed to ensure clear vision ahead
- Be courteous of other drivers. Remember everyone has a right to be on the road
- Make sure arrangements for overnight accommodation are done before leaving
- Ensure your car is in good condition and roadworthy and ready to take you to your destination, and bring you home again
- Inspect the tyres (including the spare tyre) and make sure they have sufficient tread for the road ahead
- Check you have all the necessary tools to change a tyre if needed, including a red warning triangle
- Put your cellphone and other electronic devices away while driving. Focus on the road and on other drivers. Distracted driving diminishes reaction time
- Plan a route off the beaten path and experience a bit more of South Africa than the regular routes. Take time and arrive at your destination calm and rested.
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