Many thousands of South Africans will take to the road over the next couple of months, exploring South Africa’s rich cultural heritage, stunning landscapes and vibrant communities.
Spring and summer usher in a season of festivities and outdoor adventures with the number of both international and local travellers set to steadily increase. While this boost is great for tourism, it also means more vehicles on the road and a greater risk of accidents.
In order to help travellers prepare for Mzansi’s peak travel season when travelling on the road, Siyakha Masiye, spokesperson at MiWay Insurance, urged drivers to be on high alert.
“As we prepare to welcome the warmer weather and the opportunity to venture outdoors again, let’s not let road accidents put a damper on our celebrations. Now is the time to focus on basic safety measures to reduce the risk of road congestion.”
Here are some road safety tips to for drivers to observe when travelling, according to Masiye.
Check your vehicle’s condition before you depart
Ensuring your vehicle is in good condition is just as vital as practising safe driving. Check your car’s oil, water, and fuel levels, and confirm that your spare tyre is properly inflated and puncture-free.
It’s also useful to have a few basic tools on hand to use in the event of an accident or emergency stop. These include a jack, jump starter kit, first aid kit and warning triangle.
Stay alert and take regular breaks
“This time of year, is a great opportunity for long road trips around the country, but even seasoned drivers can lose concentration on extended excursions.
“Plan to take regular breaks, stopping every one to two hours to stretch your legs and have a rest or a snack if you’re the designated driver,” advised Masiye.
He emphasised that staying alert is crucial, especially on highways where you’ll be sharing the road with large vehicles, buses, and trucks.
“Hydration is equally important, so balance your caffeine intake with regular water breaks.
“Driving with the window down can also help keep you refreshed, while engaging podcasts or audiobooks can maintain your mental sharpness during long journeys,” said the expert.
Be mindful of other drivers
Masiye highlighted that driving safely isn’t just about your own habits but you also need to be aware of others on the road too.
“Reckless or drunk drivers pose significant risks, especially during busy periods. Keep aware of your surroundings by regularly checking your rear and side mirrors, even on long stretches of road.
“This helps you anticipate potential hazards and avoid drivers behaving unpredictably,” he advised.
Masiye also said that additionally, keep in mind that foreign visitors might not be familiar with South Africa’s road safety rules so exercising extra caution around other motorists can make all the difference in avoiding accidents.
Ensure your insurance is up to date
Lastly, the expert highlighted that one of the most effective ways to protect yourself on the road is to have comprehensive vehicle insurance so before setting off, review your policy to understand what you’re covered for.
“In the event of an accident, insurance can prevent significant financial loss, making it a crucial investment. If you’re travelling with valuables, consider portable possessions cover as well,” he added.
Masiye also noted that while you're out enjoying your road trip, don't forget about the security of your home, as well.
“Before you leave, check that all doors and windows are securely locked, and set your home alarm if you have one. Having home insurance in place can further safeguard your belongings, adding another layer of protection.
“By following these safety tips and ensuring your insurance is up to date, you can enjoy your journey with peace of mind, knowing both your vehicle and your home are protected,” said Masiye.