Mpumalanga motorists encouraged to rest when driving long distances to avoid crashes
The Mpumalanga MEC for community safety, security and liaison, Vusi Shongwe, has urged motorists travelling long distances over the next few days to ensure they get enough rest along the way and not to drive while fatigued.
With many people expected to travel long distances from today and tomorrow, March 31 and April 1, following the Easter weekend, the MEC for community safety, security and liaison, Vusi Shongwe, has called on motorists to not drive while fatigued to avoid crashes.
Shongwe said in a statement that fatigue can affect the quality of the decisions drivers make. “Drivers should take regular breaks. They must concentrate and remain on extreme alert. Hence, we want them to rest every two hours or 200km of driving,” he said.
“They should not rely too much on energy drinks, but rest and alternate driving with fellow occupants where possible.”
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He also urged motorists to be cautious and obey the rules of the road, and called for everyone to wear their seat belts as it reduces the impact of injuries during crashes and collisions.
Shongwe said public transport operators who will be ferrying congregants after Easter church services must ensure their vehicles are roadworthy before departing. “We must put the lives of passengers first and not profits or number of loads. Safety must come first,” he said.
Furthermore, motorists are advised to be cautious of wet weather and misty conditions prevailing on various roads, and to adjust their driving and adhere to prescribed speed limits.
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He also called on law enforcement officers to continue showing zero tolerance to errant drivers and enforce the law without fear or favour.
Shongwe said traffic officers have been deployed, especially during the night, to deal with the congestion at the Lebombo Border and other identified priority routes.
Meanwhile, law enforcement has already stopped and checked over 40 000 vehicles across various roads since Thursday March 28. Over 19 000 heavy motor vehicles went through various weighbridges and over 5 200 drivers were issued with summonses for various offences. He said over 130 vehicles were also discontinued, and 119 vehicles were impounded by the traffic officers.
He said about eight motorists were arrested for suspected drinking and driving.
