Rainy roads and holiday traffic alert. Image: Unsplash
Rainy roads and holiday traffic alert
The RTMC urges South African motorists to exercise extreme caution on roads due to the forecasted widespread rain.
Rainy roads and holiday traffic alert. Image: Unsplash
The Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC) is urging motorists in South Africa to exercise extreme caution as the South African Weather Services forecasts widespread rain across the country.
With the return of holidaymakers, an expected increase in traffic volumes is on the horizon. This surge is a common occurrence during this festive season.
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RTMC: Drive Safe, Check Your Vehicle!
“The RTMC urges motorists to reduce speed, keep a safe following distance, have lights on and avoid crossing flooded bridges. Motorists must also ensure that vehicles are in a roadworthy state.
“Lights, wipers, windscreens, brakes, and tyres must be checked before the start of the journey.”
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The RTMC said officers will “not hesitate to discontinue or impound vehicles that are not roadworthy”.
Festive season enforcement stats on roads
Since the festive season began in December, over 1738 vehicles have been discontinued, 3340 impounded, and 4160 motorists arrested.
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The arrests predominantly involve drunken driving, false document production, and operating public transport without proper permits.
Discontinued vehicles undergo a process that includes removing and destroying their license or roadworthy certificates.
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The RTMC issues notices prohibiting these vehicles from public roads until identified defects are rectified, stipulating conditions for future operation.
Strict guidelines for public transport operators on roads
Public transport operators face stringent reminders to ensure drivers possess valid documents, adhere to designated routes, and avoid overloading.
The RTMC warns of severe consequences for those violating regulations.
As the nation anticipates increased road activity, the RTMC’s stern measures aim to prioritise road safety during adverse weather conditions and the post-holiday travel rush.
