Cargo Carriers cautions all road users to be safe as they embark on their long road journeys this Easter Holiday.

We have retained our standing as a leading provider of transport and sophisticated supply-chain solutions to specialist and highly-regulated industries through an unwavering commitment to safety.

This “Safety First” culture permeates everything that we do, and is evidenced by, among others, our ongoing focus on driver training and operation of a well-maintained fleet of trucks on South Africa’s vast road network.

The Easter break is one of the most dangerous periods to be on the road, and many fatal accidents could be avoided if all drivers, passengers and pedestrians observed the traffic rules.

Remember to always wear your seatbelts, which prevent occupants from being ejected from a vehicle upon collision.

Importantly, make sure that children under the age of three are properly secured into an approved car seat.

Worryingly, more than 90% of children are still not being strapped into their safety or booster seats in a way that they will survive a serious accident.

Speed and drunken driving remain among the chief causes of fatal accidents on the country’s roads over the holiday periods.

Considering a reaction time of one second, it will take the average driver travelling at 110 km/h about 90 m to stop a vehicle on a dry tarmac, while the efficacy of safety devices, including airbags and seatbelts, are also severely compromised when travelling at high speeds.

Drinking and driving slows reaction time and distorts vision and, even at the legal limit, drivers are four times more likely to be involved in a dangerous accident.

Another leading cause of single vehicle road accidents on South Africa’s roads is distractions, especially among drivers aged between 18 and 24.

Do not interact with passengers or use your cellular-phones while behind the wheel, which currently accounts for about 25% of all road accidents in the country.

Research has shown that it can take up to four seconds to read a text and a further five to send a reply, while other dangerous distractions include interacting with passengers, grooming, eating and drinking.

Fatigue still stands out as a major risk and can be just as dangerous as driving while intoxicated. Take regular stops, preferably every two hours or 200 km to recuperate.

Responsible motorists will also ensure that their vehicles are in a sound operating condition before embarking on a road trip.

Pay special attention to the condition of your brakes and tyres. They require regular inspection and check your spare wheel for wear and that it has been correctly inflated.

Always be courteous and considerate towards all other road users, including truck drivers, who fulfil a vital role and have just as much right to be on the road.

We wish all South Africans a safe Easter.