Festive season road safety tips from the AA

MAIN roads throughout South Africa are expected to become busier in the next few weeks as travellers embark on their annual vacations. And while this is a time for relaxation, Automobile Association (AA) has warned that road users cannot afford to take it easy, especially if they are driving.

According to the organisation, 1 676 people died on South Africa’s roads from 1 December 2017 to 15 January 2018.

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Although lower than the previous year, the AA says the festive season road accident statistics are still too high, and that motorists, pedestrians, cyclists and motorcyclists, need to ensure they are safe on the road.

“Road users must understand that major routes in the country will be busier, and they need to adjust their attitudes and driving styles to accommodate for the increased volumes. Trying to get to a destination in record times is irresponsible and dangerous, and unnecessary. If you are going on holiday, make the journey part of the holiday,” urges the AA.

“Pedestrians continue to make up almost 40 per cent of more than 14 000 annual road deaths in South Africa. This is an unacceptably high number. Motorists must always be alert on the road and obey the rules. Similarly, pedestrians must make themselves visible, obey the rules of the road, and must not drink or take drugs and walk,” says the Association.

The AA offers some tips to road users to ensure their road safety:

•    Always wear a seatbelt, and ensure all passengers are also buckled up. The law requires all children under three to be secured in proper child restraint seats.

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•    Don’t drink and drive and don’t drink and walk.

•    If you are a pedestrian, be visible to other road users, and walk where there is light. As a motorist, always focus on the road and check for pedestrians.
•    Don’t take chances by running or walking over busy roads of highways.

•    If you are going on a long trip, stop every two hours or every 200 kms for a rest, to stretch your legs, and regain your focus.

•    Have your tyres checked (including the spare) and ensure they are suitable for a long journey (and safe enough to bring you back again). Check your wheel alignment.
•    Drive to the conditions of the road. Don’t speed.

•    Always wear your helmet, and dress appropriately for motorbike and bicycle usage.

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•    Don’t be distracted while driving. Eating, drinking, talking to back seat passengers is extremely dangerous. Stay focused whether you are in a car, on a motor cycle, cycle or walking.
•    Do not text or talk on mobile devices.

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