Gauteng Traffic Police spokesperson Sello Maremane has warned road users to comply with the rules and regulations of the road as traffic on most routes leading to Gauteng is expected to increase dramatically this week.
“In general, many major routes leading into Gauteng are expected to be very busy in the next few days. Road users are advised to adhere to the prescribed speed limits and ensure that their vehicles are roadworthy before embarking on these long-distance trips. We plead with them to rest every two hours to avoid fatigue,” Maremane appealed.
He noted that many of the road fatalities the province has experienced this festive season have been attributed to excessive speeding, unsafe overtaking, reckless and/ or negligent driving, as well as driving under the influence of alcohol.
He also warned passengers against urging drivers, particularly public transport operators to exceed the prescribed general speed limit on the pretext that they do not want to arrive late at their destinations.
Maremane went on to urge pedestrians to cross the roads only when it is safe to do so, and avoid jaywalking at all costs. He also said the Gauteng Traffic Police have also noted a trend whereby road users delay their trips, opting to drive late during the day and trying to avoid the 9pm curfew.
“We have observed that the high proportion of fatal crashes including pedestrian crashes occur during the night time, despite traffic volumes being lower during the time. We would like to warn these road users that the Gauteng Traffic Police will be on high alert and anyone driving after the 9pm curfew will be arrested on the spot,” added Maremane.
Lastly, he appealed to road users to adhere to the Covid-19 health protocols which include wearing masks, practicing social distancing, and sanitizing and/or washing hands regularly.
