Mobility MEC urges road users to be extra cautious, this Heritage Day long weekend

The Western Cape’s Mobility MEC, Ricardo Mackenzie, has urged road users to be extra cautious, this Heritage Day long weekend.

‘’The Heritage Day long weekend [are] ahead of us, which coincides with the closure of some schools, is an excellent opportunity to enjoy quality time with friends and family and explore the beauty of our province.’’

‘’Please take extra care on the roads to ensure safetravels for yourselves and your loved ones. Long weekends usually mean increased volumes of vehicles on the road and a higher risk of fatal traffic crashes. We are also expecting some heavy rain in the latter part of the long weekend,’’ added Ricardo Mackenzie, Western Cape’s Mobility MEC.

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The MEC said traffic officials will be out in full force on the province’s roads to ensure compliance.

‘’Our Western Cape Traffic Law Enforcement officers – who are on duty 24/7 every single day of the year – are being deployed this weekend to heighten visibility on all major routes and manage the flow of traffic leaving and entering the province,’’ said Mackenzie.

‘’Strategic, evidence-based deployment of our Provincial Traffic force means that there will be a zero-tolerance approach to reckless and inconsiderate driver behaviour, speeding, fatigued drivers, unroadworthy vehicles and the use of alcohol on the roads,’’ he added.

Mackenzie shared tips to make your drive safe, apart from ensuring your vehicle is roadworthy before you hit the road:

‘’I urge all road users to assist the officers and services working tirelessly to keep you safe and alive. Ensure your vehicle is roadworthy. Buckle up and secure your children appropriately, even on the shortest trip. Stick to the speed limit. Don’t drink and drive. Plan to take a rest break in a safe place every 200 km or 2 hours. Don’t allow your devices to distract you from keeping your full attention on the road. These are the simple measures that will keep you and those around you safe,’’ said Ricardo Mackenzie, Western Cape’s Mobility MEC.