Dudu Busani

Dudu Busani

The Department of Transport is taking extra measures to ensure fewer road accidents during Easter, and one of them is ensuring that cars are roadworthy.

Operation Free Easter Vehicle Safety Check was launched on April 1 by the department, in partnership with the retail motor industry.

"The campaign is aimed at examining as many vehicles as possible with regard to the condition and effectiveness of safety critical items, such as brakes, tyres, steering, suspension and lighting," said transport spokesperson Ntau Letebele.

He said the department encouraged all motorists to do a thorough inspection before their departure to far destinations to avoid unnecessary delays and accidents on the road.

The safety critical items to be checked in a vehicle are all lights, including indicators, seatbelts, windscreen wipers, front and rear tyres, the foot brake, hand-brake, steering mechanism, including steering control arms, steering box and tie-rod ends, front and rear suspension, exhaust and wheel alignment.

Motorists who will be travelling this weekend are also advised that major road works are taking place nationwide.

"Traffic volumes are expected to be high from 10am tomorrow (Thursday) morning until midnight. High volumes will resume from 5am in the morning of April 10 until midday." said Letebele.