Truck drivers have been encouraged to drive in a considerate manner after Vusi Shongwe, the MEC for community safety, security and liaison, participated in an operation on the N4 in Schoemanskloof towards Mbombela on Tuesday October 12.

Shongwe said some truck drivers tend to speed excessively and without due consideration to drivers of other vehicle types.

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During the operation members of the Traffic Intervention Unit (TIU) stopped about 296 vehicles which included 171 heavy motor vehicles. Several summonses were issued for violations such as overtaking on a barrier line and several vehicle defects like worn-out tyres and faulty lights.

Shongwe recently observed eight trucks driving closely in single file on a single lane portion on the same route, making it difficult for other motorists to manoeuvre or overtake.

“Such tendencies breed impatience among drivers, and it may lead to serious crashes. The truck industry is a critical part of our economy. Many truckers are careful on our roads. However, some are inclined to reckless driving, especially at night. We have seen some of them breaking the rules, not stopping at intersections and overtaking dangerously among others,” said Shongwe in a media statement.

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He appealed to truck drivers and owners to ensure that they play their part in road safety. He also called on trucking organisations and unions to embed a sense of responsible driving among employees and members.

Shongwe encouraged long-distance drivers to plan their trips in order for them to have enough time to rest along the way. He said the department would continue to engage with the industry to raise road safety awareness on an ongoing basis.

Shongwe called on law enforcement officers to show no mercy to any driver breaking the rules, especially as the festive season is nearing.