Gauteng government launches Easter road safety campaign

The MEC of Roads and Transport Kedibone Diale-Tlabela launched an Easter Road Safety Campaign (ERSC) on April 14 in Gauteng.

This campaign creates awareness of the dangers of drunken driving, speeding, driver fatigue, pedestrian visibility, vehicle roadworthiness and the use of seatbelts.

Easter is notorious as one of the biggest seasons, amongst others with people driving home or driving back home to be with their families. However, the roads can be dangerous because of reckless driving.

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The campaign will include traffic law enforcement operations and road maintenance activities.

Xolani Fihla, JMPD spokesperson, shared there are several things drivers can avoid to make sure that everyone is safe on the roads and to decrease the fatality rate.

‘’There are several things drivers can do to avoid causing harm on the road; for example, focusing on the road because distracted driving, including using mobile devices for calls, texts or recording, dramatically increases the risk of accidents.’’

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He added that this initiative ensures safer roads and better adherence to driving rules during the holidays.
Fihla advised drivers to:

• Plan their journey: allow ample time for travel, expect potential traffic delays and avoid rushing.
• Rest regularly: fatigue is a major factor in accidents, therefore, drivers should take frequent breaks, particularly on long journeys.
• Maintain your vehicle: drivers must ensure vehicles are roadworthy, including checking wheels, brakes, lights and fluid levels.
• Avoid alcohol and drugs while driving because driving under the influence is a leading cause of accidents.
• Buckle up: all passengers, including children, should be properly secured.
• Drivers have to be aware of the weather and adjust their driving to suit weather conditions such as rain or fog.