In recent years, the Metro Police Department has stepped up its patrols on the City's highways – particularly the N2 and R300 – amid an increase in attacks on motorists.

Between April 2021 and March 2022, Metro Police officers logged 3 395 incidents, of which:

• Mechanical breakdowns accounted for 1 535 (45,2%) of all incidents
• Flat tyres and/or no spare tyre: 809 (23,9%)
• Motorists who had run out of fuel: 793 (23,4%)
• Motor vehicle and/or pedestrian accidents: 136 (4%)

'Vehicle maintenance is critical to road safety, but also for the safety of motorists and their passengers. Based on the number of incidents logged, it is clear that we need to talk about vehicle care. While we accept that mechanical issues can happen without warning, it is evident that not enough people are paying attention to their vehicle's maintenance, tyres and fuel tanks.

'A well-maintained car is safer on the road and more fuel-efficient. It is also cheaper to keep it in good running order than to fix problems only once they arise. And then we also need to talk about those drivers who insist that they can make the trip on their reserve tank, because they "know their car". You are literally gambling with your life and the lives of your passengers,' said the City's Mayoral Committee Member for Safety and Security, Alderman JP Smith.

Saturdays, Sundays and Mondays accounted for nearly 50% of all incidents recorded during the period in question, with 18:00 – 21:00 being the most prominent time period – accounting for nearly a quarter of all incidents.

Afternoon and morning peak hours were the second and third most prominent time periods.

'The majority of incidents occurred once nightfall had set in, which increases the safety risk to stranded motorists, but also the officers who come to their aid. An added complication of late has been load-shedding, which makes the surroundings even darker and provides the perfect cover for those with criminal intent.

'Our officers patrol these stretches of roadways to the best of their ability, but we need motorists to work with us. Apart from taking care of your vehicle, plan your trip carefully and take the safest route. Check that you have enough fuel, make sure that your cellphone is charged, and that you have the City's emergency number saved on the device. If you see anything out of the ordinary, including another vehicle on the side of the highway, call it in, so that we can dispatch officers to investigate and assist,' added Alderman Smith.

The City's Public Emergency Communication Centre number is 021 480 7700 from a cellphone or 107 from a landline.  

VEHICLE CARE TIPS:

Badly maintained vehicles can increase fuel usage by as much as 50%, and generally don't work as well as those that are well maintained.

Here are some tips on how to maintain your car's condition to ensure it is always safe on our roads:

• Keep your car well serviced to make sure that it performs at its best.
• Check your oil and water levels regularly.
• Check that there are no holes in the exhaust.
• Check that your tyres aren't worn thin, or underinflated – these can cause accidents.
• Check your tyre pressure monthly, as under-inflated tyres can increase fuel consumption by up to 40%

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