In South Africa, staying safe on the road is not just about following traffic rules but also protecting yourself from potential crime. We’ll cover essential driving tips to help you avoid becoming a victim of crime while navigating the streets of South Africa. You can enhance your safety while on the road by staying vigilant and taking precautionary measures.1
There has been an increase in “trio crimes, ” including car hijackings, house robberies, and robberies in non-residential areas in South Africa. These crimes pose a significant threat to people’s safety. 1
Hijackings happen regularly
Car hijackings are alarmingly common in South Africa, with over 1400 vehicles being hijacked monthly, as reported by the South African Police Service (SAPS). Women, especially when driving alone, can be seen as more vulnerable targets. 1
Here are some essential safety tips for driving alone:
1. While Driving
- In heavy traffic, leave enough space between your vehicle and the one in front.
- Keep all doors locked and windows closed.
- Ensure valuable items like laptops, handbags, and cell phones are out of sight.
- Be cautious of people approaching your vehicle’s window, as they may be a distraction while their accomplice attempts to rob you on the other side.
- Never pick up hitchhikers. 1
2. Choosing Routes
- Plan your routes, especially if going to an unfamiliar place, and stick to well-lit main roads.
- Avoid driving to unfamiliar areas after dark, as it increases the risk of getting lost and becoming an easy target for criminals.
- Keep your cell phone charged, and have a car charger handy.
- Store emergency numbers on the speed dial for quick access in an emergency. 1
3. Parking
- Pay close attention to where you park, whether on the streets or shopping centres, as these places can attract criminals.
- Always park in well-lit, central areas with other people and activity around; avoid deserted spots.
- Remember where you parked, especially in underground parking lots, and take note of the floor.
- Keep your car keys in hand to avoid searching in your bag when approaching your vehicle.
- Park in a way that allows you to see the driver’s side of your car when you return.
- Check your car and tyres when approaching it, as criminals may tamper with them.
- Please avoid using your cell phone while walking to your car, as it can be distracting. Place all bags in the boot and drive away promptly. 1
4. Vehicle Maintenance
- Keep your car well-maintained and regularly serviced at a reputable garage.
- Ensure your fuel tank is filled and refuelled when it’s half-empty rather than waiting for the empty warning.
- Learn essential skills like changing a tire, replacing wiper blades, and jumpstarting a battery.
- Regularly check your tyre condition and pressure, and replace worn-out tyres. Always keep a spare tyre in the boot. 1
Traveling with Children
- Ensure that children always wear seat belts, even for short trips.
- Do not allow children to share a seat belt with anyone else.
- Children under three years old should be secured in a proper car seat.
- Confirm that the car seat is attached correctly and suitable for the child’s size and age.
- When placing a child in a car seat, ensure the seat belt is securely fastened.
- If your vehicle is in a crash, replace the car seat.
- Never leave a sleeping child unattended in the car when you reach your destination.
- Do not allow children to sit on the laps of others while driving.
- If you must stop quickly, never leave children alone in the car; take them with you. 1
South African motorists could reduce the risk of falling victim to car hijackings and ensure the safety of themselves and their loved ones on South African roads by following these safety tips. 1
Disclaimer
This article is about driving tips to avoid being a victim of a crime in South Africa. 1
You’ve now learnt driving tips to be safer on South African roads, but are you covered for unforeseen driving circumstances? Are you considering buying car insurance at this time? Get affordable car insurance with helpful benefits like fixed premiums*, reducing excess*, and world-class customer service. Terms and conditions apply.
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This article was prepared by Eric Sandmann in his personal capacity. The views and opinions expressed in this article are the author’s own. The views and opinions in the article should not be attributed to anyone but the author unless expressly stated. Nothing in this article should be relied upon as advice, this publication is presented for informational purposes only. No person should act or refrain from acting in reliance on any information found in this article, without first obtaining proper financial advice from the appropriate professional. The author makes no claims, promises or guarantees about the accuracy, or completeness, of any information linked from, referred to, or contained in this article. The author reserves the right, to edit and change the content of this article.
Sources:
1 https://www.westerncape.gov.za/general-publication/driver-fatigue-can-be-fatal
Crime as a Threat to Road Safety in South Africa