The Citizen (Gauteng)

Invest in arriving in one piece this Easter

IN A NUTSHELL: DRIVE IN A SAFE AND SOUND CAR, AND DO IT SAFELY

-

Survive the odds you face if you take to the road.

The Automobile Associatio­n (AA) has warned motorists that with the upcoming Easter school holidays, roads will again be busier, with thousands of people embarking on holiday. An increase in traffic volumes almost always sees an increase in fatalities on the country’s roads, and the AA is urging motorists to be vigilant while driving.

More than 1 700 people died on South African roads over the 2016/2017 December holiday period, another reminder of the dangers of driving on the country’s roads during festive breaks.

And, with the Easter weekend from 14 – 17 April, roads during this period may be even more congested, as travellers enjoy a long weekend with Friday, 14 April, and Monday, 17 April being public holidays. Monday 17 April may be especially busy as holiday-makers return from their destinatio­ns to be back in time for the new school term which begins on April 18.

“It is important that any motorists who are planning to be on the country’s roads during these times are aware that there may be heavier than normal traffic on their route. The most important element of driving during this time is the correct attitude on the roads; drivers must obey the rules

Vehicle fatalities in South Africa are a scourge, and must be brought under control. It is important that every person on our roads understand­s that they have a critical role to play in road safety, and take their responsibi­lity seriously

AA statement

of the road, respect other motorists, and ensure their own, and their passengers’ safety, going to, and returning from their destinatio­ns,” the AA said.

Apart from the right attitude on the roads, motorists are also urged to ensure their vehicles are in good condition, and that they check them now, instead of waiting until the last minute to do so,

as there may be a rush from many motorists wanting to make last minutes repairs.

“Road fatalities in South Africa are a scourge in our nation, and must be brought under control. It is important that every person on our roads understand­s they have a critical role to play in road safety, and to take that responsibi­lity seriously,” the AA concluded.

 ??  ??

Newspapers in English

Newspapers from South Africa