The Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC) has urged motorists travelling to various destinations this long weekend to check the weather forecast before embarking on their journeys and to avoid travelling at night where possible.
THE LOWS OF THE DECEMBER PERIOD FOR MOTORISTS
The December period is generally characterised by summer rainfall in South Africa and motorists should ensure that their vehicles have properly functioning windscreen wipers and that brakes and tyres are in good condition, RTMC pleaded.
RTMC LATEST RESEARCH ON FATAL CRASHES ON SA ROADS
An analysis conducted by the RTMC shows that fatal crashes increase astronomically between 19H00 and 23H00. Pre-dawn travel is also dangerous as the data shows a high number of crashes between 01H00 and 03H00.
“Road crashes are particularly high on Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Motorists are called upon to exercise extreme caution when travelling on these days.
“Considering the high number of vehicles on the road at this time of the year, motorists are advised to add at least an hour to their travelling time for possible delays,” the Corporation advised.
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DRIVERS WARNED AGAINST HITCHHIKERS
RTMC also advised motorists to refrain from giving lifts to hitchhikers as this can lead to hijackings or attacks on motorists.
Motorists were also advised to keep the following numbers for use in case of an emergency:
- Crisis centre for medical and ambulance response – 101777
- Police – 10111
- Emergency response for N1/N4 toll routes – 0800 029 999.
- Emergency response for N3 toll route – 0800 63 4357
- To report bribery and corruption WhatsApp – 083 293 7989
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“Your safety remains our priority, one life lost on the road is one life too many. Be vigilant and arrive alive,” said RTMC.
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