As a long year draws to a close and matriculants prepare to celebrate the end of their exams with a well-deserved December break, the Silly Season is officially upon us. The roads across South Africa are about to get busier, bringing excitement and freedom, but also the need for vigilance and care.
The World Day of Remembrance for Road Traffic Victims (16 November) serves as a sobering reminder of the lives lost and families forever changed by road incidents that could so easily have been avoided. This year, CrisisOnCall is encouraging every driver and passenger to take a moment to pause, remember, and recommit to road safety before setting out on their next journey.
“As we remember lives lost on our roads, we’re asking every family to make one commitment: arrive alive, arrive together. Rest before you drive, and keep your focus where it matters, on the road and on your people,” says Ruan Vermaak, Head of Marketing and Communication at CrisisOnCall.
Checklist for a Safe Journey
Before starting any trip, take time to:
- Rest and refresh. Fatigue is one of the most common causes of serious accidents.
- Plan your route. Know your stops, share your itinerary, and avoid driving late at night or in unfamiliar areas.
- Check your vehicle. Make sure your tyres, lights, and indicators are in good working order.
- Buckle up. Every passenger, every time.
- Stay focused. Do not use your phone while driving and minimise distractions.
- Stay sober. Choose a designated driver before the celebrations begin. The legal alcohol limit in South Africa is 0.05 g per 100 ml of blood, which is roughly the equivalent of less than half a glass of wine or a single beer. Even that can impair judgement and reaction time, so the safest option is to avoid drinking altogether if you plan to drive.
- Prepare for emergencies. Save CrisisOnCall’s 24-hour number and ensure your membership is up to date.
“Matric holidays and the festive season should be a time of celebration, not tragedy,” adds Vermaak. “By taking simple precautions, we can all help ensure that every trip ends with everyone home safely.”
As the country enters the Silly Season, CrisisOnCall urges all drivers to stay alert, rested, and ready. A few extra minutes of planning could save a lifetime of regret.
For more information, to join or renew your membership, contact:
📧 [email protected]
🌐 www.crisisoncall.co.za
📞 National emergency number: 0861 57 47 47
Follow them on social media:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CrisisOnCall
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_crisisoncall/
