Motorists urged to exercise caution amid severe weather

The Eastern Cape Department of Transport has urged motorists to exercise extreme caution as persistent rain and severe winter weather continue to affect large parts of the province.

Wet and slippery roads, together with poor visibility, have increased the risk of serious crashes on several routes. Motorists have been advised to reduce their speed, maintain a safe following distance and switch on their headlights while travelling.

The department also warned drivers to avoid sudden braking and dangerous overtaking, particularly in areas where visibility has been reduced by rain, fog or mist.

Winter conditions may bring further hazards, including snowfall and the formation of black ice along high-lying routes. Roads may be particularly dangerous during the early morning and evening when temperatures are lower and visibility is limited.

Motorists should ensure their vehicles are roadworthy before travelling, with tyres, brakes and windscreen wipers in good condition.

Road users have also been encouraged to avoid unnecessary travel during periods of severe weather and to obey all road closures and instructions issued by traffic authorities.

Traffic law enforcement officers and road maintenance teams remain on high alert and are monitoring conditions across the provincial road network.

“The safety of all road users remains our highest priority, and we appeal to motorists to play their part by driving responsibly and remaining alert throughout this period of adverse weather,” the department said.