Written by Mabuyane Mabuza
The silly season is upon us, yes the season of the ANC elective conference but this is also the season of family. But in a typical South African fashion, this is also the season of road carnage. A lot of South Africans and migrants from the SADC region will be embarking on long journeys home to visit family for Christmas and New Year. Naturally, this is supposed to be a joyous time of the year but unfortunately, many families would also bury their loved ones due to road accidents.
It is against this background that the festive season is somewhat bittersweet for families who have lost loved ones during this period.
We, at 959OnWheels, have a responsibility to inform and educate our audiences about road safety throughout the year and especially this time of the year.
So what is it that you need to do before embarking on that long journey to visit family in another province or neighbouring country by road?
- Well, first things first, both machines and humans have to be fit for the journey.
- Get the vehicle checked by a qualified technician/mechanic assuming it has already received its annual service.
- Ensure that your tyres and wiper blades are also in excellent condition(you don’t need a technician to tell you that).
- Prepare yourself mentally and emotionally to stay focused even when road conditions are challenging. The preparation includes but is not limited to bad behaviour from other motorists, trucks, unruly pedestrians, livestock, and bad road conditions such as potholes. Allow yourself enough travel time for toilet and meal breaks to allow yourself and your family some rest.
- Travelling during the day has an added advantage. Some of the daytime travelling advantages include better visibility, access to facilities, sightseeing, and a sense of control.
- Take a cooler box with water and ice to stay hydrated and have a first aid kit that consists of basic medication especially if you are travelling with children and the elderly. Avoid road rage by all means necessary for it is not worth it.
These are basic and proven travel techniques that could save your life and those of your loved ones.
Have a safe journey and God bless.
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