With the traditional festive-season rush almost underway, SA’s roads will again see a surge in traffic.

Authorities are preparing for these busy holiday periods, with long-distance travel, family trips, and coastal getaways all contributing to heightened congestion and increased risk.

Dewald Ranft, the chairperson of the Motor Industry Workshop Association (Miwa), urged motorists to take extra care, particularly those towing trailers, boats or caravans.

He said incorrect towing is a major contributor to serious accidents every December, and a few simple checks and responsible behaviour can prevent unnecessary tragedies.

Pre-trip preparation

Ranft emphasised the importance of thoroughly servicing and inspecting any trailer, boat, or caravan before setting off on a trip.

“These units often stand unused for months. Before you hit the road, have a qualified repairer check the brakes (if fitted), electrics, lights, cables, wheel bearings and tyres. Tyres, in particular, may look fine but often develop cracks from age rather than mileage.”

He said that understanding towing weight limits and licence requirements is a must.

“Your licence code directly influences what you can legally tow. Motorists should ensure they meet the legal weight-to-vehicle ratio and that the combined mass does not exceed their vehicle’s design limits. Non-compliance can result in fines, but more importantly, it puts lives at risk.”

Driving tips for safer towing:

• Plan for higher fuel use: Towing significantly increases fuel consumption. Plan fuel stops ahead of time and budget accordingly;

• Drive slowly: “Speeding is a leading cause of towing-related crashes,” noted Ranft. Maintain an increased stopping distance and take extra care when overtaking large trucks, as the air turbulence can easily destabilise an overloaded or unbalanced trailer;

• Correctly balance the load: At least 60% of the load must sit ahead of the axle. Poor weight distribution is one of the most common causes of trailer sway;

• Safely helping others: Many motorists try to help stranded drivers, something Ranft supports, but with caution.

“Use only approved towing equipment like tow bars or correctly rated tow ropes. Always secure equipment to proper towing points attached to the chassis,” he warned.

He also reminded motorists that a towed vehicle without power will have limited steering and braking abilities, requiring clear communication and slow, controlled movements.

“Every December, families are torn apart by avoidable road incidents. If we all commit to responsible towing and safer driving, we can help ensure more South Africans reach their destinations and return home safely,” concluded Ranft.