Ward 100 Clr Johannes Bekker is repainting faded road markings in his ward. He raised the importance of visible road markings to improve road safety.
The markings guide motorists, so their visibility is vital, especially when driving at night and in unfavourable conditions, such as heavy rain or fog.
Bekker said, “Global studies show that a reflective edge line reduces collisions by more than 10%, and a reflective centre line reduces them by another 10%.
“An even greater reduction in collisions was observed during night time. These reductions were between 37% and 42%.
“Intense research was done on the laws of South Africa regarding requirements for road markings. A stop sign is a regulatory sign which directs a road user to take or not to take a specific action.
“A stop sign is posted at a specific place which, through research and historical data, has become a hazardous location. Road markings fade over time and, in some areas, are neglected. A road traffic marking can be used to improve the visibility of the stop sign. One sign is sufficient,” said Bekker.
According to Bekker, over the past few months, local road users had neglected to adhere to the road signs by not stopping behind the posts because of faded or a lack of markings.
He approached AfriForum for help with the sponsorship of road marking paint. Over the past few weeks, several hot spots throughout Ward 100 were identified and painted, the most recent being in Cullinan.
“The safety of road users is crucial and must be followed to ensure mutual respect. If any road user neglects to adhere to the rules of the road, it will have serious consequences,” said Bekker.
