The Easter Festive Season is a time for
family reunions, religious observances, and much-needed breaks. However, with
an influx of people traveling on the roads in Gauteng and across
interprovincial routes, road safety is a critical concern. This period brings
an increased risk of accidents, particularly due to higher traffic volumes,
long-distance travel, and pedestrian activities.
Drivers unfamiliar with the roads may
also be more prone to errors, exacerbating the danger. Additionally, roadworks
and unpredictable weather conditions, including rain and fog, can make driving
more hazardous. According to the 2024 road
safety report for Easter 2024 by the Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC), Gauteng contributed to 20.8% of fatal crashes for
Easter 2024. It is essential for both drivers and pedestrians to be aware of
the hazards and take appropriate precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable
holiday season.
For those traveling long distances from
Gauteng to other provinces, planning and preparation are key to ensuring a safe
trip. Before hitting the road, it is crucial to plan the route in advance. This
includes checking for roadworks, construction delays, and closures. Using
navigation apps like Google Maps or Waze can help keep drivers updated on
real-time conditions. It is also essential to ensure that your vehicle is
roadworthy before embarking on a long journey. Checking tire pressure, fluid
levels, brakes, and lights can help avoid unnecessary breakdowns that could put
travellers at risk.
Driving long distances can lead to
fatigue, which significantly increases the risk of accidents. To counter this,
drivers should take regular breaks, ideally every two hours, to rest and
stretch. If possible, share driving duties to avoid exhaustion. Carrying
essential supplies such as water, snacks, and a first-aid kit is also
advisable. Furthermore, it is important to stay within speed limits and adjust
to road conditions. Speeding, especially on unfamiliar roads, can increase the
likelihood of losing control of the vehicle. Taking these preventive measures
can make all the difference in arriving safely at your destination.
Ensuring the safety of all commuters
also extends to public transport operators and passengers. Operators are urged
to adhere strictly to all rules and regulations, prioritizing the safety of
their passengers. Similarly, passengers are encouraged to cooperate with law
enforcement authorities and to report any suspicious behaviour that makes them
feel unsafe. Collective responsibility within the public transport sector is
paramount in preventing accidents and ensuring that everyone reaches their
destination safely.
Pedestrians also remain one of the most
vulnerable groups on the road, particularly during busy holiday periods. Pedestrian
safety remains a major concern, accounting to 22.9% of fatal crashes during the
2024 Easter season, as stated in the 2024 RTMC Easter report.
With people walking to shopping centres, religious gatherings, and family
events, the risk of pedestrian accidents is high. Pedestrians are urged to use
designated crossings, such as pedestrian bridges, zebra crossing or traffic
lights, and avoid crossing roads at random points. It is also essential to look
both ways before crossing, even at a pedestrian crossing, and never assume that
drivers will stop for you. Visibility is another important aspect of pedestrian
safety. Whether it is day or night, pedestrians should wear bright or
reflective clothing to ensure that drivers can see them, especially in low
light areas. Carrying a flashlight at night can also help improve visibility.
In addition, pedestrians are urged to avoid distractions, such as texting or
using earphones while walking, as this reduces awareness of the surrounding
environment. 
Beyond pedestrian safety, understanding
the demographics of driver fatalities is crucial for effective road safety
interventions. The 2024 Easter weekend tragically highlighted the vulnerability
of young adults on our roads. The report shows that drivers between 25 to 29
years accounted for a concerning 30.4% of all driver fatalities, nationwide.  Therefore, young drivers are urged to drive
responsibly and to wear their seatbelts to protect themselves and passengers. Regulation
213 of the National Road Traffic Act mandates seatbelt use for all passengers. 
Drivers should also practice defensive
driving, which includes staying aware of other road users, keeping a safe
following distance, and using turn signals to communicate intentions and should
always be prepared for emergencies. This includes carrying an emergency kit
with basic supplies such as a first-aid kit, flashlight, and spare tire. In
case of a breakdown or accident, these items can prove invaluable.
The Gauteng Provincial Government (GPG) is
committed to ensuring road safety throughout the Easter period through
implementation of various initiatives such as an increased presence of Law
Enforcement Agencies (LEAs) on major routes. Furthermore, the Gauteng Traffic
Police together with Gauteng Traffic Wardens (GTWs) and other law enforcement
officials will be on high alert to ensure road safety through various law enforcement
operations aimed at addressing speeding, drinking and driving, overloading and
other road violations. Law Enforcement Agencies will be intensifying the monitoring
of public transport vehicles, including buses and taxis, to ensure compliance
with regulations regarding passenger capacity, vehicle roadworthiness, and
driver sobriety. 
It is important for all road users to be
cautious and stay alert so that everyone arrives safely at their destination. Ultimately,
road safety is a collective responsibility.