MAHIKENG MAIL - MAHIKENG: The distressing and reckless driving by motorists in Mahikeng has become a major concern on the roads, posing a significant threat to the safety of all road users.
This article does not refer to a perfect town or city where people normally drive well, but it is no secret that comparably, Mahikeng has terrible drivers who are deliberately reckless and negligent, using the roads with disparagement and pride when they break the rules and regulations of the road.
The list of law-breaking acts which are common problems in Mahikeng include impatience while driving, not obeying the traffic rules and regulations, by-passing traffic signs and traffic lights, using the wrong lanes facing oncoming traffic, heavily loaded trucks parking and obstructing traffic on the popular Nelson Mandela Drive passing through Mafikeng and, driving while using mobile phones.
The blatant disregard for traffic laws and regulations is alarming, with many drivers speeding, tailgating and ignoring traffic signs. This irresponsible behaviour not only puts the driver’s own life at risk, but also endangers the lives of innocent pedestrians, cyclists and other motorists. The consequences of such reckless driving can be devastating, resulting in serious injuries, fatalities and damage to property.
The root causes of Mahikeng’s poor driving on roads range from a lack of driving skills to a culture of disregarding legal usage of roads.
It has also been proven that factors such as stress, fatigue and distractions while driving contribute to reckless behaviour on roads.
To combat this worrisome aspect, Mahikeng Local Municipality, the traffic Department and the Department of Community Safety and Transport Management must implement strict by-laws on Mahikeng roads, stricter enforcement of traffic laws, public awareness campaigns and education programs to promote defensive driving techniques, as well as deployment of traffic officers to ensure visibility in order to manage this problem.
