Taking a road trip over a long weekend is commonplace in the Western Cape, and holidaymakers tend to make the most of their free time by enjoying the journey.
Explore the Western Cape:
A road trip gives holidaymakers the chance to really enjoy the sights of the province’s famous scenic routes.
We encourage you to take the following factors into account when planning your journey to help you reach your destination safely and comfortably.
Road safety
A long weekend usually means more vehicles on the road. Unfortunately, some road users drive or walk under the influence of alcohol, and may disregard the rules of the road. Be extra cautious and vigilant on the roads during this time. Your safety and the safety of your passengers depend on it. Read more about our road safety initiatives on Safely Home's website.
Road safety tips
- Do not speed.
- Do not drink and drive.
- Be extra mindful of pedestrians and slow down wherever you notice people walking. (Half of the Western Cape’s road traffic fatalities are pedestrians.)
- Do not use your cellphone while driving.
- Don't drive when you are tired. Plan to stop in a safe place every two hours or 200km and stretch your legs outside your vehicle.
- Ensure that you and your passengers buckle up, including children. Children under the age of three years must be strapped into an age-appropriate safety harness.
The Western Cape Mobility Department will be busy this long weekend. Its Provincial Traffic Services team will be making the province's roads safer through integrated roadblocks.
Roadworks
The Department of Infrastructure maintains and builds provincial roads in the Western Cape to enhance road user travel experience and safety while contributing to economic growth by facilitating the transit of people and goods.
When you plan your trip, take road construction projects into account to avoid unnecessary delays and frustration.
- Read how the Department of Infrastructure is building and maintaining roads in the Western Cape.
- View the interactive provincial rural road map for information about road conditions and current road construction projects.
- Here's why you should be patient around roadworks.
Check your licence
Make sure your motor vehicle licence is valid for the time you expect to be away from home by renewing it in good time. Remember that your driving licence is valid for five years and may also need to be renewed.
Vehicle owners and drivers face hefty penalties if traffic officials find that their licences have expired.
Roadworthiness
Ensure that your vehicle is roadworthy before you start your journey.
Check the following features of your vehicle:
- Seatbelts: Make sure they are not damaged and that they can be extended, fastened and unclasped easily.
- Tyres: The tread depth must be at least 1mm deep across the whole tyre. Check your tyre pressure and wheel alignment before any long trip.
- Shock absorbers: Your vehicle’s shock absorbers must be in good condition to ensure safe handling and braking.
- Electrical systems: Check that your indicators, wipers, wiring, lights, hooter and battery are in good working condition.
- Brakes: Make sure you have enough brake fluid and that your front and rear brakes are in good working order.
Read more about checking the roadworthiness of your vehicle.