With misty mornings, dark commutes and more hazardous driving conditions becoming increasingly common ahead of winter, motorists and pedestrians in Pretoria are being urged to exercise extra caution as visibility on the roads worsens.

The Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC) has warned that winter conditions create a dangerous environment for both motorists and pedestrians.

Authorities are particularly concerned about the high number of pedestrian fatalities recorded on roads across the country.

RTMC spokesperson Simon Zwane said pedestrians currently account for nearly half of all road fatalities, making them one of the most vulnerable groups during the winter months.

“Human behaviour remains the leading factor in road traffic incidents. As visibility drops during these winter months, both motorists and pedestrians must drastically change their behaviour to adapt to the conditions,” he said.

He added that the corporation’s priority is to ensure pedestrians are visible to motorists and that drivers reduce their speed in poor visibility conditions.

According to the RTMC, winter creates hazardous road conditions, as late sunrises and early sunsets mean that peak traffic often occurs in twilight or complete darkness.

Zwane stated that pedestrians should avoid wearing dark clothing during early mornings and evenings. Instead, they should wear bright or reflective clothing or carry white items to improve visibility.

He warned that intoxicated pedestrians remain one of the largest contributors to fatal winter crashes, particularly when attempting to cross busy roads and highways.

“Pedestrians are urged to make use of designated crossings, traffic lights and pedestrian bridges instead of jaywalking across major roads. It is both illegal and fatal to walk along or cross national highways. Highways are not walking zones.”

Motorists have been advised to ensure that headlights, indicators, taillights and fog lights are functioning properly, as poor visibility and winter glare can significantly reduce a driver’s ability to see clearly.

The RTMC further cautioned drivers to regularly clean their windscreens, warning that dirt combined with winter glare can temporarily impair visibility.

“Drivers are also urged to check their tyres regularly, as cold and wet road surfaces reduce traction. Tyres should have a minimum tread depth of 1.6mm, although 3mm or more is recommended for improved grip and to reduce the risk of aquaplaning or sliding,” said Zwane.

The corporation added that motorists should increase following distances in misty, rainy or icy conditions. Drivers are advised to extend the normal two-second following rule to at least four seconds to allow for longer stopping distances.

Zwane also warned motorists against driving in poor visibility conditions without using headlights.

“Thick winter fog and veld fire smoke can obscure stationary vehicles. If visibility drops below 50 metres, switch on low beams and hazard lights or pull over safely and wait until conditions improve,” he said.

“Colder weather and shorter days can cause drivers to become worn out more quickly, especially during long-distance travel.”

Drivers embarking on lengthy journeys are encouraged to stop for a break every two hours or every 200km.

Zwane added that law enforcement agencies, together with provincial traffic authorities, have intensified 24-hour operations and visible policing along high-risk routes during the winter period.

The RTMC said enforcement efforts would focus heavily on speeding, vehicle roadworthiness, and driving or walking under the influence of alcohol.

“Road safety is a shared responsibility. By making conscious, deliberate choices to prioritise safety, road users can drastically reduce winter carnage and ensure that every road user arrives alive,” he added.

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