Go easy on the roads this Easter

THE Automobile Association (AA) has warned motorists that with the upcoming Easter school holidays, roads will again be busier, with thousands of people embarking on holiday.

An increase in traffic volumes almost always sees an increase in fatalities on the country’s roads, and the AA is urging motorists to be vigilant while driving.

More than 1700 people died on South African roads over the 2016/2017 December holiday period, another reminder of the dangers of driving on the country’s roads during festive breaks.

And, with the Easter weekend from April 14 to 17, roads during this period may be even more congested as travellers enjoy a long weekend with Friday, 14 April, and Monday, 17 April being public holidays.

Monday 17 April may be especially busy as holiday-makers return from their destinations to be back in time for the new school term which begins on April 18.

TOP TIPS

1 Wear your seatbelt at all times, and ensure all passengers are wearing theirs.

2 Don’t drive drunk, or under the influence of any drugs.

3 Be courteous and considerate of other drivers.

4 Rest when you are tired, or every two hours or 200km.

5 Obey the speed limit, and drive to the conditions of the road.

6 Check your tyres, and replace any balding tyres, including the spare.

7 Check that your brakes and shock absorbers are in good condition.

8 Check for any cracks or chips in your windscreen, as these may get worse on a long journey, and cause problems with visibility.

9 Check windscreen wipers (front and back) and ensure they are working properly. Don’t wait for a heavy downpour to discover your wipers don’t work.

10 Check that all electric components on your vehicle work. If you are in doubt, have it checked out.

11 If possible, stagger your departure dates to and from your holiday to avoid the heavy traffic.

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