With the high traffic volumes expected on the roads from tomorrow, Transport Minister Sindisiwe Chikunga has reiterated her call to motorists and road users to exercise heightened vigilance on the roads during the festive season.
Chikunga's call comes after seven people lost their lives and over 50 sustained injuries during a major crash in Mpumalanga province recently. According to reports, the incident occurred on Friday afternoon when a bus overturned on the R37 between Lydenburg and Sabie. The reports indicated that the bus was ferrying passengers from Lydenburg to Sabie when the crash occurred. It is alleged that the bus had a tyre burst and the driver lost control and went through a barrier and down an embankment. The bus landed on its side approximately 30m from the road. Chikunga launched the 2023/24 Festive Season Road Safety Campaign at Tsakane Stadium in the East Rand on Sunday. The focus of this year's campaign is on the impact of alcohol on road user behaviour and its contribution to the carnage.
"Road safety remains the responsibility of every individual. I urge all road users to heed the call and follow all the rules of the road. Roads are a public space that should be used and shared responsibly with due consideration for all the other users," she said. Chikunga further said that the number of accidents the department has observed happen during the night because people opt to travel during the night rather than to drive during the day. Chikunga further provided road safety tips as the festive season is upon us and the traffic volumes are anticipated to increase as travellers make their journeys to and from various destinations.
- Do not drive under the influence of alcohol.
- Adhere to the speed limit.
- Ensure that your vehicle is roadworthy.
- Avoid using cell phones while driving.
- Buckle up at all times
- For long journeys, take regular breaks.
- Pedestrians must cross streets at marked intersections.
- Pedestrians must wear bright clothing when walking in dark areas.
