TRAC provides tips for avoiding spikes on N4

The police highlighted the following areas where vehicle spiking incidents occur, including more than just the N4:
Middelburg on the N4, Bethal, Kendall, Phola/Ogies on the N12 near the Arbor off-ramp, Delmas still on the N12 as well as from Bronkhorstspruit towards Witbank on the N4.

Witbank on Dellville Street, Verena Road, R555/Old Ogies Road, the Calcutta area, the R40 around the Marite area, Belfast on the N4 next to Wonderfontein, and Acornhoek in the Matsikitsane area.

In light of the recent spiking incidents, TRAC released a set of good-practice tips for drivers to consider when travelling along this route. They aim to reduce the risk of road users becoming victims of this type of crime.

What is vehicle spiking?
Spikes or other objects are placed on the road to cause damage to vehicles forcing affected motorists to stop. When the vehicle comes to a standstill, criminals rob and assault drivers and passengers.

Vehicle spiking facts
• Spiking incidents are predominantly taking place at night – if possible, travel during daylight
• Spiking incidents are erratic, and different techniques are used, including throwing objects/spikes in front of vehicles.

Tips to stay safe
• Travel at lower speeds, especially when travelling in the dark as this may assist drivers’ reaction time to avoid the damaging objects and/or reduce the amount of damage caused to the vehicle
• Travel in clusters and stay close to your convoy
• In the event that your vehicle is spiked, slow down to a safe speed and attempt to drive as far away as possible from the crime scene
• If possible, stop at a safe, well-lit place – like a police station or service station.

If you have been affected by this type of crime or see any suspicious-looking activity, call the response units below, the local SAPS and/or the TRAC

Gauteng Response Unit: 
082 556 7459 | 066 296 5286

Highveld Response Unit:
013 247 7346 

TRAC 24 hour helpdesk:
0800 87 22 64 (SA)