As families across South Africa pack their cars and set out on winter holidays, the allure of snow-capped mountains, quaint country towns and scenic coastal getaways shines brighter than ever, Cape {town} Etc reports.
Yet, the open road, while promising adventure, also demands a heightened sense of caution during the winter months.
This reminder comes from Xolisa Bangazi, Managing Director of PEG, a part of the JSE-listed KAL Group and a leading independent fuel and convenience retailer.
‘Winter holidays bring a welcome sense of escape for many families, but too often, drivers fail to appreciate just how quickly conditions on the road can change. What looks like a harmless patch of mist or a picture-perfect snowfall can quickly turn dangerous. The hazards hiding behind scenic routes should not be underestimated,’ Bangazi said.
South Africa’s diverse terrain, ranging from the mountainous passes of the Ceres in the Western Cape to the high altitudes of the Free State and Eastern Cape, makes it particularly susceptible to winter hazards like snow, fog, rain, and perilous black ice.
Last month, for instance, heavy snowfall and torrential rain triggered flooding that resulted in numerous road closures and accidents in the Eastern Cape.
Statistics paint a troubling picture: this year, South Africa has been ranked as the most dangerous country for driving, according to Zutobi’s 2024 global report, The World’s Safest and Most Dangerous Roads.
Furthermore, the Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC) has warned that the likelihood of fatal accidents spikes during winter, with June averaging over 1 000 deaths annually over the past four years.
According to Bangazi, one of the most insidious risks drivers face during winter is the presence of ice on road surfaces, particularly black ice, which is notoriously hard to spot and can cause vehicles to lose traction rapidly.
‘Drivers often don’t realise how little traction they have until it’s too late, overconfidence in vehicle capabilities, like relying on four-wheel drive, can actually increase the danger if people do not adjust their driving accordingly,’ he cautions.
At PEG’s forecourts, Bangazi’s team frequently witnesses the dire consequences of inadequate preparation. ‘We regularly assist customers who’ve neglected the basics: bald tyres, faulty windscreen wipers, even missing spares, We always advise a vehicle check-up before any long journey, particularly in winter.’
‘Whether you’re chasing misty mountain mornings or coastal sunsets, a well-planned road trip can help you make the most of South Africa’s winter wonders, safely,’ concludes Bangazi.
Key safety tips for winter driving
Before embarking on your winter road trip, Bangazi recommends several practical safety tips to keep in mind:
- Do your homework: Investigate potential hazards along your route, such as flooding or rockfalls. Local community forums can provide real-time updates, particularly for spontaneous trips to areas that receive snowfall.
- If bad weather is forecast, rethink your plans: Heavy snow or rain can make roads treacherous and may lead to restrictions or closures.
- Watch the wind: Be cautious of strong winds, especially in open or coastal areas. Maintain a firm grip on the steering wheel, reduce speed, and give extra space to high-sided vehicles.
- Use real-time navigation tools: Apps like Google Maps and Waze can alert you to road closures, accidents, or hazardous conditions, allowing for route adjustment on the go.
- Find refuge: Frequent breaks are essential to combat driver fatigue—a noted cause of accidents. Modern fuel stations offer essential rest, refreshment, and safety for long-distance travellers.
- Know when to turn back: If conditions feel unsafe, it’s okay to reconsider your plans. A delayed arrival is preferable to risking your safety.
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Picture: Gallo images / Jaco Marais
