The Festive Season – Christmas and New Years – brings in a considerable increase of new and second hand cars on the road each year. The streets are busier and drivers are more distracted than ever by their to-do lists…
A 2016/2017 report by South Africa’s Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC) shows that 80% of road traffic accidents are a result of speeding and reckless driving, which is an alarming cause of concern, especially during the Festive Season.
It’s okay to be in a hurry trying to begin your celebratory festivities, but let’s wrap the year up safely with a few of CarZar.co.za road safety tips:
- Drinking and driving is a big NO! Not only for your own wellbeing, but for South Africa’s road traffic law enforcement as well.
- Wear your seatbelt. Buckling up will reduce your chances of injury during a collision.
- Slow down when necessary. It may be tempting to speed up your kilometres, but be aware of the presence of road traffic officers who would feel more than welcome to gift you with a speeding ticket.
- Carry an emergency kit. Always be prepared for a roadside emergency or injury from a collision.
- Remember your road traffic rules. Keep an eye out for the road traffic signs. If you’re unfamiliar with South Africa’s road traffic signs and rules, try out our K53 Quiz.
- Take a break. If you plan on taking a long road trip or hitting the road early, but feel as though your eyes are about to shut, pull off on the side of the road or take turns with a licensed passenger.
- Emergency numbers. Make sure to carry the following numbers with you, in a case of an emergency:
- Ambulance: 10177
- Cell phone Emergency: 112 (MTN, Vodacom and Cell C)
- Crime Stop: 08600 10111
- ER24: 084 124
- Netcare: 082 911
- Police Flying Squad: 10111
However, many have started taking the safe alternative to drinking and driving – private taxies such as Uber or Taxify.
If you’re a common or occasional Uber rider, here are a few safety tips to take into account during your Uber ride.
- Memorise your ride’s vehicle colour, make and model, and registration number.
- Make the back seat your spot, to have a clear 360-degree view and awareness of your interior surroundings.
- Listen to your gut. If you don’t feel comfortable or sense something out of place, end your trip using your Uber or Taxify App.
- Use in-app ‘help’ for any queries or urgent requests from Uber or Taxify’s support.
- Keep aware of your surroundings, as some drivers may be oblivious to road obstacles or unexpected occurrences.
CarZar wishes you a sensational Festive Season!
Get the best price the South African market is willing to pay for your second hand car and a possible match on your asking price. At CarZar.co.za, we buy cars and pay more for your car!