Be the change on our roads in April

The Easter period is particularly busy on Western Cape roads with large numbers of people and vehicles rushing to their destinations. Traffic and road safety officers of the Department of Transport and Public Works (DTPW) will be hard at work making a difference during this month’s #BeTheChange road safety campaign. This year, we will again be emphasising the importance of integrated traffic and road safety initiatives for saving lives and reducing injury. 

“Road safety is of vital importance at Easter, and at every other time of the year,” said Farrel Payne, DTPW Director of Traffic Law Enforcement. “Our round-the-clock law enforcement and road safety awareness activities help to reduce the risk of crashes, but safer roads depend on collective effort. All road users must play their part to reduce the risk of crashes. Whether you are a driver, a pedestrian or a cyclist, be the change that you want to see on Western Cape roads. Take personal responsibility for good road user behaviour, and encourage others to do the same.” 

Smart law enforcement technology will be at the forefront of efforts to address the scourge of alcohol, fatigued driving, and speeding during April. Mobile alcohol evidentiary breath testing (EBAT) units enable traffic officers to immediately determine whether motorists are driving under the influence of alcohol without the need for a blood test. Drivers under the influence will be arrested, and EBAT test results can be used as evidence in court. The electronic fatigue management system alerts officers to long-distance public transport drivers who might be driving tired so that they can intervene. The average speed over distance (ASOD) system measures the time a vehicle takes to travel from one point to another and fines are automatically issued to speedsters. 

It’s up to you to make the difference. #BeTheChange you want to see on our roads. For more information see safelyhome.westerncape.gov.za and find us on Facebook and Twitter @WCGovSafelyHome.