Staggering 20 accidents in just two days in Giyani
Police in Giyani have recorded twenty accidents in only ten days stretching from August 28 until September 6, of which six accidents resulted in road deaths.
“The most dangerous roads in our area where the most accidents occur, are the R81 road from Giyani to Makgakgapatse and the R529 road from Sekhunyani to Mphagani. Most of these accidents are cited to be reckless driving according to police reports. These two roads are danger zones,” said Const Ridgewell Rikhotso, spokesperson of the police in Giyani. He said that with the festive season approaching, there is an increase in the number of road users, including cyclists.
“Cycling as a means of transport is affordable and serves as a way to exercise. Motorists need to understand that cyclists and motorcyclists have the same rights as motor vehicle drivers. They face unique safety challenges, such as visibility. Motorists are advised to be on the lookout for cyclists; for instance, before making a left-hand turn at an intersection, make sure that there are no pedestrians, cyclists, or motorcyclists approaching even if it looks as though the road is clear.
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“Motorcyclists may have to downshift and weave to avoid speed bumps, potholes, and road hazards,” he added. Ways in which road users can share the road responsibly are: • Always slow down and be prepared to yield to pedestrians when they are at a crossing. • Never pass vehicles stopped at a crossing, as there may be people crossing whom you cannot see. • Be extra cautious when backing up across sidewalks or in parking lots.
• Just like drivers behind the wheel, cyclists and motorcyclists must obey signs and signals. • Ride defensively, assuming others cannot see you and do not let yourself be distracted by music, an electronic device, or anything else that takes your focus off the road. • Cyclists should always ride in the same direction as the traffic, use bike lanes when available, and avoid riding on sidewalks when possible.
• Pedestrians should also follow the rules of the road and obey signs and signals, which are there for protection. If there is no sidewalk, walk facing traffic and as far from vehicles as possible. Always cross at a designated zebra crossing. • If there is no crosswalk, pedestrians
should cross at a visible or well-lit place where drivers can best see them.
