A multi-entity project has been launched to curb truck accidents in and around Gauteng.
After several deadly accidents involving trucks, on both the West Rand and across the country, authorities are increasing awareness to keep motorists safe. To launch the Heavy Goods Vehicle Awareness Campaign, roadblocks were set up on Hendrik Potgieter Road on either side of the Doreen Road and Peter Road intersection to inspect large trucks on November 2. The location was no coincidence, as the notorious stretch of road has seen multiple accidents over the years that have traumatized many residents.
A joint initiative by the City of Johannesburg and Johannesburg Roads Agency(JRA), Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD) and Gauteng Traffic Police were called in to assist with enforcement. As well as pulling over trucks for inspection, JRA members, City of Johannesburg Emergency Management Service and Department of Community Safety handed out educational leaflets to motorists and truck drivers.
Doreen Road links Wards 83 and 97 and both ward councillors for the areas made themselves available for the operation. Ward 83 Councillor, Florence Roberts, encouraged her residents to continue to send her photographic evidence of trucks breaking the pass’ five ton limit while Councillor Jacques Hoon urged trucking companies to assist. “It is about involving the community and encouraging business owners to ensure their vehicles and drivers are compliant,” said councillor Hoon.
Part of the road safety paraphernalia were guidelines on proper preparation before embarking on heavy deliveries. Choosing the right vehicles for the load, the review of loading and unloading procedures and checking the load regularly during the journey were sighted as simple measures to avoid disaster. Vitally, business owners and drivers are urged to plan the best route possible that take steep inclines and time-relevant congestion into account.
Truck rollovers are another common occurrence that could be mitigated by adequate planning. Again, knowledge of the route and the vehicle are important but weight distribution was key in this regard. Aiming for a low centre of gravity for the load and adopting a safe and consistent driving style with limited erratic movement would ensure keeping the vehicle upright.
Hoping to ride a wave of momentum created by the awareness campaign, councillor Hoon will be holding an open petition signing at the bottom of Doreen Road. In July 2021, flashing lights were added to the signs indicating the five ton weight restriction and the idea of gantries have been discussed between ward governance and JRA. From 9:00 to 10:00 on Saturday November 5, ward 97 activists will be compiling a list of signatures outside the hardware store at Ruimsig Boulevard Shopping Centre to add weight to their proposals to install more effective life-saving measures.
