RTMC advises motorists to prepare themselves adequately for festive season travel
With fourteen (14) days left before the start of the festive season peak travel period in South Africa, the Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC) is calling on freight and public transport operators to ensure their drivers are fit and healthy to be on the roads.
This is also an opportune time for all motorists to ensure that their vehicles are roadworthy and comply with relevant legislation. Vehicle licence discs must be renewed and defects such as cracked windows, worn out wipers, smooth tyres and brakes must be fixed.
To renew without hassles, drivers can log on to online.natis.gov.za where they can opt for their discs to be delivered to their doorstep.
Tyre bursts and slippery wet surfaces account for 2.5% and 2.4% as contributory factors to fatal road collisions thus highlighting the importance of having properly functioning brakes and tyres in vehicles.
With rainfall predicted on some of the traveling days, it is important to fit proper wipers and functioning lights to ensure visibility on the road. Drivers should opt to travel during the day instead of at night where possible, as visibility is drastically reduced when its dark.
Motorists are further advised to ensure they always carry a valid driving licence card. Driving without a valid driving licence card is an infringement and is punishable by law.
RTMC DLTC centres are open 7 days a week from Sunday to Monday between 7am – 9pm. Motorists are encouraged to take advantage of these extended operational hours to renew their driving licences.
With chronic lifestyle diseases reportedly on the increase, it is pivotal for freight and public transport operators to ensure that their drivers are allowed to undergo medical tests and those on treatment receive their medication before embarking on long distance travel.
Drivers of private vehicles are also urged to ensure that they are in a fit and healthy state before embarking on long distance travel. Drives must have sufficient sleep before travel and have access to fresh water during trips to avoid dehydration.
Media Enquiries:
Simon Zwane:
Cell: 082 5519892
Chief Communication Officer
