Higher traffic volumes as holidaymakers return home

The Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC) has called for vigilance, patience and respect for the rules of the road as the festive season comes to an end and travellers return home. 

Roads leading out of coastal areas and neighbouring States are expected to experience high traffic volumes. Law enforcement officers have been deployed to monitor driver behaviour on the roads and reduce the number of crashes and fatalities. 

In a statement, the RTMC said 7 448 people were arrested on South African roads over the festive period for various offences, including drunk driving, speeding, and attempted bribery. 

The arrests were made between 1 December 2024 and 1 January 2025.

“The highest breath alcohol level recorded was 2.47mg/1 000ml on the R61 in Lusikisiki, Eastern Cape, on 27 December 2024. Eastern Cape recorded 455 arrests for allegedly driving under the influence of alcohol in December. 

“The highest speed recorded was in Limpopo on the N1. A motorist was caught driving at 209km/h in 120km/h zone on the 17th of December. 

“As of 1 January, a total of 1 157 032 vehicles were stopped and checked by road traffic authorities as part of the festive season enforcement plan aimed at promoting safety on national roads. Officers issued 408 783 written charges for various traffic violations and 6 034 vehicles were discontinued,” said the RTMC.

It urged motorists to be cautious when driving under rainy conditions. 

Drivers are reminded to put their lights on, reduce speed, increase following distance and avoid the use of cellphones and other distractions when driving in rainy conditions. – SAnews.gov.za