National and provincial transport authorities are rolling out intensified campaigns to curb the Easter road death toll under the theme “It Begins with Me”, placing responsibility for road safety on both drivers and pedestrians.
According to Minister of Transport Barbara Creecy, driver and pedestrian behaviour is responsible for 87% of accidents and fatalities. The six week March to May Road Safety Campaign will focus on the roadworthiness of buses and driver fatigue in line with the expected increase in faith-based travellers.
The Retail Motor Industry Organisation (RMI), weighs in on the holiday period ahead by reminding motorists of the importance of a pre-trip vehicle check.
“With increased traffic volumes, including more heavy vehicles on all major routes, drivers have to ensure their vehicles are ready to deal with whatever may happen on the road,” says Ipeleng Mabusela, RMI CEO: Corporate Strategy and Corporate Support.
“As we tick off our checklist of what to pack, buy and book, remember about the mode of transport you’re relying on for the journey. Is your vehicle as ready for the Easter break as you are? Will your journey with your most precious cargo be a safe one?
“Regular servicing and maintenance at an accredited MIWA workshop provides you with peace of mind, but even so, just to be 100% sure, have all the essentials checked before you embark on your journey. He says the Vehicle Testing Association (VTA), a proud association of the RMI, is once again running its annual Easter free safety campaign from 11 April to 17 April 2025 so there is no excuse not to do a pre-check. A list of stations can be found here.
The RMI agrees with government’s stance that the responsibility lies with motorists and pedestrians when it comes to road safety. The leading causes of accidents on South Africa’s roads remain drinking and driving, speeding, reckless driving and blatant disregard for the rules of the road, especially behaviours like ignoring traffic signals.
Pedestrians become a hazard and put themselves in danger when drunk and by not wearing bright clothing or trying to cross freeways and other dangerous roads with high traffic volumes.
“Motorists also have a lot to contend with on our roads in terms of poor road markings, potholes and even sinkholes, so pre-trip planning and prep is of utmost importance,” says Mabusela.
“Common vehicle issues noted over holiday periods are underinflated tyres, worn brake pads, and cracked windscreens. All of these compromise safety and the handling of a vehicle and pose a danger to the driver, their passengers, and other road users.
“Tyres pressure and tread provide that essential bond between your vehicle and the road. If either is compromised, so will the handling of your vehicle be. You could have a blow-out or lose control in wet weather and run the risk of aquaplaning. Any of our TEPA fitment centres nationally could assist by giving your tyres and windscreen a quick once-over.
“Another imperative of road safety is maximum visibility – you being able to see the road and other road users being able to see you. Optimal lighting allows you to see and be seen, reducing the risk of accidents. Many drivers wait until vehicle lights stop functioning before changing them, without accounting for a light's degradation over time.
“While windscreen repair is less expensive than replacement, if you wait too long and the damage has time to spread, repair will no longer be an option. Just because a windscreen is chipped doesn’t mean that it needs to be totally replaced. What is important is to get it repaired as soon as possible after you notice a chip or crack, to prevent further damage that might impair visibility.”
Mabusela concludes by reiterating good driver behaviour as a deterrent to accidents, so don’t forget to:
- Wear a seat belt. Good drivers always wear their seatbelts and they always ensure that all passengers in the car have their seatbelts on.
- Be patient. This is probably the most important trait for any driver. If all drivers were to practice patience, many accidents will be prevented.
- Always be aware of your surroundings. Good drivers acknowledge they are not the only ones on the road. Hence, they are always on the lookout for possible hazards and can mitigate risk in advance in an emergency situation.
“Let’s all work towards a peaceful and safe Easter holiday on the roads by doing our part in preventing accidents. Embarking on your journey in a roadworthy and well maintained vehicle is the first step towards this.”