With many people expected to start travelling this week after the holidays, the Department of Community Safety, Security and Liaison has appealed to motorists to drive with greater caution amid high traffic volumes in the Lowveld.

Those who are driving long distances are advised to rest as and when there is a need, if not every two hours or 200 kilometres. This will assist in improving concentration levels, better decision-making on the road and minimising some of the crashes caused by fatigue.

It is important for motorists to also ascertain the roadworthiness of vehicles before the commencement of their journeys. Overloading will not be tolerated by law enforcement officers who remain on high alert for any violations by drivers.

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Motorists should always adapt their driving to various prevailing conditions, which include weather, and should prioritise their own safety and that of other road users.

According to the department, since the beginning of the festive season to date, over 22 000 written notices have been issued to drivers in Mpumalanga for various offences ranging from reckless and negligent driving to vehicle defects.

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Nineteen motorists have been arrested for offences that include driving under the influence and excessive speeding.

About 33 000 vehicles went through various weighbridges across the province. The officials went on to impound nearly 600 cars due to defects and excessive overloading.

Law enforcement officers will continue to be visible on the road through block patrols and speeding operations.