Rifle Range Road, an accident hotspot

Three vehicles reportedly collided on corner Rifle Range Road and Gertruida Street on September 20, where all three vehicles including a kombi, were badly damaged. According to the officials on the scene no one was injured although the driver of the kombi was very emotional.

Less than a week later on Rifle Range Road in Chrisville, a lady driver stood with passengers of her wrecked vehicle watching as a tow truck driver prepared to tow it away.

However, there may be hope yet as the 5th Annual Road Safety Summit 2013 happening at Gold Reef City on November 5, 6 and 7 promises to tackle the concerning number of motor accidents on our roads.

The summit will focus on establishing a new approach to road accidents with the key strategies to be discussed including; creating one voice across all provinces to promote safer roads, to name and shame wrongdoers to achieve effective law enforcement, a look at Roadside Drug Screening and Prosecution of driving under the influence (DUI) as well as changing driver behaviour and reconditioning their thinking.

Motorists in Johannesburg South suggested more road blocks by JMPD, fixing defects on roads such as potholes which are a contributing factor to accidents, saying that roads should be of a better standard and quality. They believe that more money should be invested in road infrastructure.

“Extra attention should be put on repainting barrier lines, proper signage and working traffic lights,” said Xolani Mzolo.
Sector 1 CPF Coordinator Imtiaaz Mia believes drivers are poorly trained and their attitudes need to change. “In most cases drivers opt to buy their driver’s licences instead of obtaining it the right way! Drivers of heavy vehicles need special training to cope with heavy loads and to negotiate mountainous roads.”

“Road markings and road conditions also play a very important part in vehicle accidents as well as drunken driving which has seen a steady increase through the years. Hollard has kits to test yourself for alcohol intake levels so that a motorist can be certain whether they are over the limit or not,” he added.

A long term approach to road safety is what Mr Mia believes will be a determining factor in combating accidents, bribery and deaths on South African roads, starting with an efficient foundation phase for new drivers as well as illegal drivers who travel without proper documentation.