Creecy urges motorists to exercise caution over Easter break
Transport Minister Barbra Creecy has warned motorists of slippery roads due to predicted heavy rainfall during the Easter holiday period.
Creecy led a high-impact, multi-agency road safety operation on Sunday on the N2 at King Neptune, in the Eastern Cape.
Road traffic volumes are expected to increase as most South Africans will be travelling long distances ahead of the Easter weekend.
Last year, a total of 335 fatalities were recorded for the Easter weekend, which marked an increase from 252 the previous year.
Creecy also reminded motorists to double-check the state of their vehicles before travelling, especially when embarking on long-distance trips, to ensure safety.
She added that it is the small safety inspections that ensure that motorists arrive at their destinations alive.
“Before you leave, check your tires, check your breaks. Check your windscreen wipers, and check your lights and taillights. These small checks can save your life,” the minister said.
Creecy added that all spheres of government have been working on eliminating human errors as a cause of road accidents.
“80% of accidents in our country are caused by human error, speeding, texting while driving and driving under the influence of alcohol, walking on highways and across highways.”
Creecy attributed 40% of car accident fatalities to pedestrians.
READ MORE: Pedestrian fatalities remain huge concern - Creecy
She also added that there is a high number of children with brain injuries due to car accidents.
The minister urged parents and guardians to secure children in car seats and safety belts and refrain from holding children in their arms when travelling.
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