29 June 2007
Tshwane: Driving in winter may be hazardous for the unprepared and
inexperienced driver. Although South Africa is not as well known for extreme
winter conditions, such conditions may be extremely hazardous and many drivers
might need to consider measures relating to the condition of their car as well
as driving techniques in these conditions.
Road safety tips for motorists driving during extreme cold conditions:
* Wipers and washers. Make sure the windshield wiper blades are in good
condition. Make sure the wiper blades press against the window hard enough to
wipe the windshield clean. Otherwise they may not sweep off snow properly. Make
sure the windshield washer works and there is washing fluid contained in the
washer reservoir. Use windshield washer antifreeze to prevent freezing of the
washer liquid. If you can't see well enough while driving (for example, if your
wipers fail), stop safely and fix the problem.
* Tyres. Make sure you have enough tread on your tires. When driving, the
tyres must provide traction to push the rig over wet pavement and through snow.
The steering tyres must have traction to steer the vehicle. Enough tread is
especially important in winter conditions.
* Lights and reflectors. Make sure the lights and reflectors are clean.
Lights and reflectors are especially important during bad weather. Check from
time to time during bad weather to make sure they are clean and working
properly.
* Exhaust system. Exhaust system leaks are especially dangerous when inside
ventilation may be poor (windows rolled up, etc.). Loose connections could
permit poisonous carbon monoxide to leak into your vehicle. Carbon monoxide gas
will cause you to be sleepy. In large enough amounts it can kill you. Check the
exhaust system for loose parts and for sounds and signs of leaks.
The Department of Transport's 'Arrive Alive' campaign advises motorists to
follow these safety guidelines:
* Start gently and slowly. When first starting, get the feel of the road.
Don't hurry.
* Adjust turning and braking to conditions. Make turns as gentle as
possible. Don't brake any harder than necessary.
* Adjust speed to conditions. Don't pass slower vehicles unless necessary.
Go slow and watch far enough ahead to keep a steady speed. Avoid having to slow
down and speed up. Take curves at slower speeds and don't brake while
negotiating curves. Be aware that as the temperature rises to the point where
ice begins to melt, the road becomes even more slippery. Slow down more.
* Adjust space to conditions. Don't drive alongside other vehicles. Keep a
longer following distance. When you see a traffic jam ahead, slow down or stop
to wait for it to clear. Try hard to anticipate stops early and slow down
gradually.
* Be careful of wet brakes. When driving in heavy rain or deep standing
water, your brakes will get wet. Water in the brakes can cause the brakes to be
weak, to apply unevenly, or to grab. This can cause lack of braking power,
wheel lock-ups, pulling to one side or the other, and jack knife if you are
pulling a trailer. Exercise more caution and let's all 'Arrive Alive.'
Media Contact:
Ntau Letebele
Cell: 082 923 9194
Collen Msibi
Cell: 082 414 5279
Issued by: Ministry of Transport
29 June 2007
Source: SAPA
