How to stay alive on the road this festive season

AS SOUTH Africans prepare for the busy December holidays, the country’s roads once again face high volumes of traffic, congestion, and an elevated risk of fatal crashes. Recent official data underscores the urgency of prioritising vehicle safety before hitting the highway: preliminary festive season statistics show 1,502 people died in 1,234 fatal crashes during the 2024–25 festive season, a 5.3 % increase in deaths year‑on‑year and a 4.2 % rise in crashes from the previous season.

The Northern Cape, while less populous than other provinces, registered 63 fatalities from 45 fatal crashes last festive season, reflecting that no region is immune to the holiday spike in road trauma. 

These numbers, compounded by widespread unroadworthy vehicles, highlight how poor vehicle condition contributes to crashes. A recent safety drive found over 63% of vehicles failed basic inspections for critical components, including brakes, tyres, and lights, a stark indicator of how many cars are unfit for long journeys. 

For motorists planning long trips this holiday season, thorough vehicle checks can dramatically reduce the risk of breakdowns and crashes. Key areas to inspect include:

Tyres: Your tyres are the only parts of your vehicle in contact with the road. Check that tread depth meets legal standards, that pressures match the manufacturer’s recommendations and that there are no bulges, cracks or uneven wear. Tyre bursts on busy routes can lead to sudden loss of control and catastrophic crashes, particularly during high‑speed travel. 

Functional brakes are essential, especially when roads are congested, and you may need to stop suddenly. Listen for unusual noises when braking, feel for sponginess in the pedal, and, if in doubt, have a professional inspect the brake pads, discs and fluid. Faulty brakes have been linked to a significant portion of fatal collisions involving mechanical failure. 

Lights and Indicators Good visibility is non‑negotiable, particularly when travelling at dusk or in heavy rain. Ensure headlights, tail lights, brake lights, reverse lights and indicators are all operational. Non‑functioning lights not only reduce your ability to see but also make it harder for other road users to predict your actions. 

Fluids and Wipers: Check engine oil, coolant, brake fluid and windscreen washer levels before departure. Low or contaminated fluids can lead to overheating, engine damage or reduced braking efficiency. Replace worn wiper blades to maintain visibility in unpredictable summer weather. 

Beyond vehicle maintenance, South African authorities emphasise responsible driving behaviour, obeying speed limits, avoiding alcohol behind the wheel and staying rested, as the majority of festive season crashes stem from human factors such as speeding, fatigue and reckless overtaking. 

Simple preparatory steps today, from tyre and brake checks to ensuring lights and fluids are in order, can make the difference between reaching your destination safely and becoming another tragic statistic on South Africa’s holiday roads. Prioritise safety and plan ahead to protect yourself and others this festive season.