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Obey the rules of the road this Easter - JMPD

24 March 2016

 

The Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD) will have zero tolerance on those who ignore the rules of the road over the Easter weekend. 

 

JMPD Chief Superintendent Wayne Minnaar says hundreds of metro police officers will mount roadblocks throughout the city to ensure motorists obey the rules of the road.

Those who fail, Minnaar has warned, will face the consequences, which could include spending the weekend behind bars or facing hefty fines.

“There will be roadblocks, stop-and-search programmes and tests for drivers under the influence,” says Chief Superintendent Minnaar.

He adds that motorists driving unroadworthy vehicles will also be arrested. Minnaar says some of the biggest causes of accidents are driving under the influence of alcohol, texting while driving and speeding. Most drunk drivers are in the 23-34 age group.

Chief Superintendent Minnaar says metro police officers arrested 600 drunk drivers - 30 of them women - over the past long weekend. Among the hot spots to be targeted are the N1 freeway in Midrand, N3 highway in Edenvale, William Nicol Road and Rivonia Road, both in Sandton.

Officers will stop and search motorists and pedestrians for drugs, illegal firearms, licences and legal papers. Police will also patrol recreation areas. Chief Superintendent Minnaar has offered the following advice to road users:

  • Never walk while under the influence of alcohol as it impairs judgment;

  • Do not talk on your cellphone or text while driving;

  • Ensure your safety belt is on at all times;

  • Start any trip by getting enough sleep - at least for eight hours before you leave. Energy drinks are a health hazard;

  • Do not consume any alcohol during your trip;

  • Keep a safe following distance – four seconds from the car in front of you; and

  • Adhere to the speed limit.

Johannesburg Emergency Services spokesman Robert Mulaudzi says the entity started a campaign on 20 March to teach people about the importance of road safety.

“As part of the Easter campaign, we will be going to different taxi ranks to teach people about travelling safe and which numbers to call when they are in need of medical services,” says Mulaudzi.



 

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