Law enforcement to clamp down on cell phone usage
Nkadimeng warned that the breaking of traffic rules will not be tolerated as the municipality is moving towards a safer city.
POLOKWANE – During the state-of-the-city address in June by mayor Thembi Nkadimeng, she mentioned that the municipality would focus more on safety and security within the municipality, and that this includes traffic safety.
In an effort to deal with issues like outstanding fines and breaking of traffic rules, the municipality embarked on several roadblocks and monitoring of driver behaviour in the city.
Nkadimeng warned that the breaking of traffic rules will not be tolerated as the municipality is moving towards a safer city.
One of the focus points will be motorists using cell phones while driving.
Various research has proven that the use of cell phones while driving impaired driver performance and had resulted in motor-vehicle accidents, some of which were fatal.
Using a mobile phone while driving impairs the following:
• Maintenance of lane position.
• Maintenance of appropriate speed.
• Maintenance of appropriate following distance.
• Reaction times.
• General awareness of other traffic.
According to Arrive Alive’s website, motorists found driving while using a cell phone can be fined up to an amount of R1 000 by law-enforcement officials.
As an alternative, Arrive Alive advises motorists to make use of hands-free kits that are available at cellular and electronic stores.
