With motorists gearing up to drive long distances to other parts of the country, the City of Cape Town says it’s leaving nothing to chance in a quest to save lives and reduce the carnage on provincial roads.
According to the City, two designated vehicle testing stations will now be available to conduct voluntary vehicle checks on private and public transport vehicles this festive season, subject to operational requirements.
In the past, the City invited only public transport operators to submit their vehicles for voluntary inspections so that any potential defects could be identified and fixed.
This year, vehicle owners can take their cars to the Bellville and Joe Gqabi testing stations.
Both will remain operational until Friday, 19 December.
JP Smith, Mayco member for safety and security, says the City’s enforcement agencies will ramp up roving vehicle checkpoints. Traffic officials will conduct roadside checks at strategic spots and ensure drivers comply with road rules.
“Where an officer suspects a vehicle requires further investigation, it will be sent to a City vehicle testing facility. If the vehicle is deemed unroadworthy, the disc will be removed, in accordance with legislation, until the owner can submit proof of roadworthiness,” he says.
Smith says this is necessary to drastically reduce road deaths.
“Unfortunately, the festive season is notorious for a higher death-toll and we should all do what we can to make our roads safer. Along with higher traffic volumes, there is also an unfortunate increase in reckless and negligent driving, and driving under the influence of alcohol,” Smith says.
He urges motorists to be responsible on the road.
Tips for long distance driving/travelling:
- Ensure that your vehicle is roadworthy and that you have a spare wheel and the necessary tools in case of an emergency or breakdown
- Do not drink and drive
- Do not drive without a valid licence or transport paying passengers without a valid public driving permit (PrDP)
- Have enough rest before your trip and use a backup driver so you can take breaks
- Stop every two hours and stretch your legs, or stop as soon as you’re feeling tired
- Should you need to pull over – do so only in areas that are safe and away from passing traffic
