RTMC cautions motorists to avoid hitchhikers

The Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC) has advised motorists to refrain from giving lifts to hitchhikers as this can lead to hijackings or attacks on motorists.

WHY HITCHHIKERS SHOULD BE IGNORED BY MOTORISTS

During the holiday season, honest and desperate citizens will be exploring all means to travel to their holiday destinations; however, criminals are expected to take advantage of unsuspecting motorists.

In most instances, criminals rob or hijack motorists under the pretence of being a hitchhiker during the busy season.

“Your safety remains our priority, one life lost on the road is one life too many. Be vigilant and arrive alive,” said RTMC.

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RTMC LATEST RESEARCH ON FATAL CRASHES ON SA ROADS

Meanwhile, the December period is generally characterised by summer rainfall in South Africa and motorists should ensure that their vehicles have properly functioning windscreen wipers and that brakes and tyres are in good condition, RTMC pleaded.

An analysis conducted by the RTMC shows that fatal crashes increase astronomically between 19H00 and 23H00. Pre-dawn travel is also dangerous as the data shows a high number of crashes between 01H00 and 03H00.

“Road crashes are particularly high on Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Motorists are called upon to exercise extreme caution when travelling on these days.

“Considering the high number of vehicles on the road at this time of the year, motorists are advised to add at least an hour to their travelling time for possible delays,” the Corporation advised.

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USEFUL EMERGENCY NUMBERS FOR DRIVERS THIS FESTIVE SEASON

Motorists were also advised to keep the following numbers for use in case of an emergency:

• Crisis centre for medical and ambulance response – 101777
• Police – 10111
• Emergency response for N1/N4 toll routes – 0800 029 999.
• Emergency response for N3 toll route – 0800 63 4357
• To report bribery and corruption WhatsApp – 083 293 7989

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