WARNING: Safe driving behaviour advised for motorists in wet weather conditions

The Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC) has advised motorists to exercise extreme caution when driving in rainy conditions.

RAINY WEATHER PREDICTED IN PARTS OF THE COUNTRY

This after the South African Weather Services has forecasted rain in many parts of the country.

With some travellers starting to make back from holidays, the roads are expected to see a slight increase in traffic volumes today, Wednesday, 27 December.

The RTMC has urged 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,” the entity warned.

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RTMC WARNS MOTORISTS TO TRAVEL IN ROADWORTHY VEHILCES

RTMC warned that Officers will not hesitate to discontinue or impound vehicles that are not roadworthy.

“More than 1738 vehicles have been discontinued and 3340 impounded since the start of the festive season on December 1.

“More than 4160 motorists have been arrested. The majority were held for drunken driving while others were detained for producing false documents and driving public transport contrary to operating permits. Public transport operators are again reminded that their drivers have proper documents to drive and the vehicles are used on permitted routes and are not overloaded,” the entity explained.

Furthermore, RTMC warned that severe consequences will be faced by those found operating in contrary to the rules.

WHY HITCHHIKERS SHOULD BE IGNORED BY MOTORISTS

Meanwhile, RTMC has advised motorists to refrain from giving lifts to hitchhikers as this can lead to hijackings or attacks on 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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