While many head to various destinations for the celebration of Easter festivities, the Retail Motor Industry Organisation (RMI) has emphasized on the importance of a pre-trip vehicle check to ensure safe trips.
RMI Chief of Corporate Strategy and Corporate Support, Ipeleng Mabusela said that with the increased traffic volumes, including more heavy vehicles on all major routes, drivers have to ensure that their vehicles are ready to deal with occurrences on the road.
“Regular servicing and maintenance at an accredited MIWA workshop provides you with peace of mind, but even so, just to be absolutely sure, have all the essentials checked before you embark on your journey,” said Mabusela.
He added that the RMI affiliated Vehicle Testing Association (VTA) was once again running its annual Easter safety campaign from 11 April to 17 April offering motorists a free service.
“The RMI agrees with government’s stance that the responsibility lies with motorists and pedestrians when it comes to road safety. The leading causes of accidents on South Africa’s roads remain drinking and driving, speeding, reckless driving and blatant disregard for the rules of the road, especially behaviours like ignoring traffic signals,” said Mabusela.
He said pedestrians also become a hazard by walking on the roads drunk and not wearing bright clothing.
“Motorists also have a lot to contend with on our roads in terms of poor road markings, potholes and even sinkholes, so pre-trip planning and prep is of utmost importance. Let’s all work towards a peaceful and safe Easter holiday on the roads by doing our part in preventing accidents. Embarking on your journey in a roadworthy and well maintained vehicle is the first step towards this,” concluded Mabusela.
