Pretoria - As traffic volumes are expected to increase today ahead of the New Year, Transport Minister Sibusiso Ndebele is urging motorists not to drink and drive.
Last Friday, traffic volumes peaked at more than 2 000 vehicles per hour along major arterial routes.
With hundreds of motorists arrested across the country during the past Christmas long week-end, Ndebele said law enforcement officers will continue to be visible in full force.
"For the New Year, we urge every South African to enlist as a Friend of the Decade of Action for Road Safety 2011-2020, a global movement to bring down road deaths and injuries world-wide.
"We expect every motorist to pledge they shall not drink and drive. Test themselves and their vehicle before a journey.
"Not tolerate speeding. Wear my seatbelt and ensure all passengers are buckled up.
"Not tolerate overloading. Encourage rest stops every two hours. Eliminate use of cell phones while driving," he said.
Ndebele further said all motorists should promote pedestrian safety and should at all times obey the rules of the road.
He urged South Africans to report any violation of traffic rules to 0861 400 800.
