File picture: Danie van der Lith
THE NORTHERN Cape provincial police commissioner, Lieutenant-General Koliswa Otola, has vowed that the law will clamp down hard on those who do not abide by the rules of the road as the festive season fast approaches.
This follows after Otola shared her concerns following Sunday’s horrific accident on the R31 that claimed the lives of seven people.
The accident occurred on the R31 between Delportshoop and Ulco when a bus and a taxi collided at approximately 2pm.
Northern Cape police spokesperson Colonel Mashay Gamieldien said that Otola urged all road users to adhere to the rules of the road.
“Otola emphasised that road safety is the responsibility of all road users. Motorists, pedestrians and cyclists must adhere to the rules of the road at all times,” said Gamieldien.
“The police in the Northern Cape will intensify patrols and conduct both static roadblocks and vehicle checkpoints on all major roads throughout the Province as we approach the festive season. A zero-tolerance approach will be followed when it comes to road safety.”.
Gamieldien added that road users are advised to always be sober and vigilant.
“Motorists and pedestrians, as well as cyclists, are warned not to use the road when intoxicated. Road users must not drink and drive or use cellphones when driving as it is illegal and extremely dangerous. Motorists must ensure that their vehicles are in a roadworthy condition.
“The driver must also ensure that every person inside their vehicle is wearing a safety belt and guard against distractions while driving, maintain a safe following distance and not overtake on blind spots. Motorists must allow themselves to take short breaks when driving long distances in order to prevent driver fatigue,” Gamieldien advised.