Driving on South African roads can be scenic and enjoyable, but they can also be stressful. While most South African roads are well maintained and in good condition, motorists have so many other aspects of the road to deal with each day.
Our accident rate is one of the highest in the world, either due to drunk driving or negligence from other drivers. We also have a high crime rate, and this affects the daily commute of many South Africans quite a bit. In some cases, some of our roads are in deplorable conditions.
So, how can motorists improve their driving experience and stay safe while travelling? Here are some safety tips to help improve your everyday driving on South African roads.
What would be considered a hazard on South African roads?
• Overtaking: Some motorists love to overtake. They usually do it when you least expect it. Be alert at all times; most drivers will pull out right in front of you. This could cause a bad accident.
• Pulling over: Always make sure to pull over on the side of the road where it looks the safest. Never pull over on a bend or narrow street. Only pull over if it’s essential, as the crime in South Africa is very high.
• Four-way stop: Be alert at a four-way stop intersection. Always adhere to who has the right of way. Whoever has stopped first is allowed to go first. This may ultimately avoid a collision.
• Taxis: In South Africa, minibus taxis are one of the most popular modes of transport but are one of the most dangerous too. Most minibus taxis tend to not obey the rules of the road, and the taxis are overloaded way too often.
• Rural areas: Most rural areas do not have road markings, road signs or are in bad conditions. Before travelling to a known rural area, you should get a better understanding of where you are going first. You do not want to end up in an area that has a high statistical crime rate.
• Pedestrians: With a lot of people using public transport, adults and children often have to walk long distances. Please take care to watch out for pedestrians.
• Livestock: South Africa is well known for its cattle farming. Be alert when you are driving through farm areas for unexpected livestock that might need to cross the road.
What crime risks should South African motorists be aware of now?
We live in a beautiful country, but we can’t turn a blind eye to the high crime rate that we face. Even though you are safe in your vehicle for the majority of the time, there are some real-life dangers that we sometimes face while driving.
• Even when you are feeling safe in your car and the area where you are travelling in, it would be best to keep your windows closed and your doors locked.
• Be aware of intersections and highway off-ramps. These are crime hotspots, and criminals use these areas to their advantage by either hijacking you or performing a smash-and-grab.
• Hijacking is a general problem in South Africa but is particularly a problem on secondary roads, isolated areas, or when you are approaching your home.
• Be alert of debris on the road. Criminals use these obstacles to distract you and get you to stop your vehicle. Do not stop and get out of your car if you come across something like this. It is best to drive around it.
• Please do not pick up hitchhikers in South Africa as many of them do not have good intentions. If you are distressed by a hitchhiker, let the local authorities know, and they could go to the aid of the person.
• A parked vehicle must always be locked and windows rolled up.
• If your car were to breakdown or get a flat tyre, pull over as safely as you can and don’t leave your vehicle—preferably phone your roadside assistance contact for help.
• Use safe parking as much as you can when you go out. Your car should be safer in these parking lots.
• Do not stop to help another motorist who is stuck on the side of the road. You do not know what their intentions are.
• Be alert for fake traffic police officers. In South Africa, there is a syndicate that works on this modus operandi. If you feel unsure, try to phone a friend, family member or the police service to help you.
• Always be alert at robots in affluent areas. Hijackers and criminals love using these to do their crimes.
• Try to avoid window washers at intersections. Instead, wave them away. They have been reported to be quite abusive if you don’t want their services.
Please stay safe on our roads, follow the rules of the road and be mindful of our crime.
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This article was prepared by Eric Sandmann in his personal capacity. The views and opinions expressed in this article are the author’s own. The views and opinions in the article should not be attributed to anyone but the author unless expressly stated. Nothing in this article should be relied upon as advice, this publication is presented for informational purposes only. No person should act or refrain from acting in reliance on any information found in this article, without first obtaining proper financial advice from the appropriate professional. The author makes no claims, promises or guarantees about the accuracy, or completeness, of any information linked from, referred to, or contained in this article. The author reserves the right, to edit and change the content of this article.
