Traffic approaching the Soweto interchange. Road trip from Richards Bay to Johannesburg. The weather goes from rain to sunshine and back again to overcast across the approximately 630 km journey. Picture: Karen Sandison.
It’s the peak festive season and between this weekend and January 2025, the roads will be filled with cars moving from one province to another.
Most people will be travelling with their families to either go on holiday or visit their loved ones in the rural areas. During this time, it’s important to be cautious on the road to ensure that you arrive alive.
To support road safety efforts, Unitrans offers the following tips for passenger vehicle drivers when driving near trucks.
Avoid blind spots: Trucks have large blind spots on the sides, rear and directly in front. If you can't see the truck driver in their mirrors, they can't see you.
Give cars space: Allow enough space between cars, especially when driving behind trucks because they need more room to manoeuvre and stop. Avoid cutting in front of them or following too closely.
Pass safely: Always pass trucks on the correct side and ensure ample space before merging back into the lane.
Be patient: Trucks may slow down in heavy traffic due to their size and weight. Stay calm, avoid aggressive driving and do not overtake on sharp curves. And before overtaking, make sure it is safe to do so.
Watch for signals: As a driver, remember that you are also responsible for the cars around you. Watch their moves and how they indicate to anticipate the driver’s intentions.
Take breaks when needed: Make sure that you plan safety stops along the way to stretch and recharge. Before driving long distances, get enough rest before your trip to avoid fatigue on the road.
Pack snacks: Pack enough snacks for your trip and don’t forget your water. It will help you stay hydrated and awake throughout the journey.