Traffic

Long weekend traffic volumes are on the increase. Image: Pixabay

Traffic volumes exceeds 1 700 per hour towards Kwazulu-Natal

As more people travel to their holiday destinations, traffic volumes are increasing; more than 1 700 vehicles per hour have been recorded

Traffic

Long weekend traffic volumes are on the increase. Image: Pixabay

By 6:00 on 16 December southbound traffic levels in the direction of KwaZulu-Natal already reached 1 700 vehicles per hour.

Conditions are expected to remain busy throughout the day.

Crash increases congestion on roads

A three-truck collision has been reported between Harrismith and Montrose.

Both southbound lanes are closed, and traffic is passing by the scene.

Although emergency services are on the scene, the complex recovery and clean-up operation is expected to take some time.

Road users are advised to proceed with caution in this area.

Road users are urged to adjust their driving style in response to heavy and slow-moving traffic.

Increased demand for public vehicles, as well as a mix of vehicle types and speed differentials, places additional strain on drivers, law enforcement, and emergency services.

Tips for driving in traffic

Arrive Alive shares tips for driving in heavy traffic conditions:

  • Drive in a manner that will allow the time and space to respond swiftly to any emergency situation.
  • Avoid aggressive driving and weaving from lane to lane – you are driving – not playing Tetris!
  • Follow the flow of traffic.
  • Keep your eyes scanning traffic and road conditions.
  • Adjust driving to the traffic, road, and weather conditions.
  • Identify hazards such as drivers and vehicles that appear unsafe, erratically merging across lanes, speeding dangerously, or drifting within a lane.
  • Keep a close eye on the driving patterns of others, as well as road signs indicating detours, construction work or other obstacles in your way.
  • Focusing on general awareness of the traffic ahead of and behind you will help you build a mental picture of the driving conditions on your route.
  • Keep left unless you are overtaking.
  • Signal before making a turn or merging into a lane and be attentive to blind spots.
  • Apply the brakes smoothly – By stopping and starting your car without jerky motions, you’ll avoid knocking into bumpers and help traffic flow along at a better place.
  • Obey all the Rules of the Road.

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