Load shedding has become common in South Africa, with power cuts regularly happening throughout the country. While load shedding significantly impacts our daily lives, it also has serious implications for road safety. Let’s explore how load shedding affects our roads and what we can do to stay safe.
What are the experts saying?
According to ArriveAlive, load shedding can significantly impact traffic lights and other road infrastructure. When traffic lights go out, it can lead to confusion and chaos on the roads, increasing the risk of accidents. This is especially true at intersections where multiple roads intersect, and there is no clear indication of who has the right of way. This can lead to accidents, injuries, and even fatalities.
The Automobile Association (AA) has also expressed concern about the impact of load shedding on road safety. The AA has highlighted that load shedding can cause traffic congestion, leading to increased driver frustration and impatience. This can result in drivers taking unnecessary risks, such as running red lights or overtaking in dangerous situations.
Gert Nel, a prominent South African attorney specializing in RAF claims, has also emphasized the importance of vigilance during load shedding. He warns that drivers must be extra cautious and aware of their surroundings during power cuts, as other drivers may not be as alert or observant as they usually would be. This is especially true at night when visibility is reduced, and it can be challenging to see other vehicles or pedestrians on the road.
3 steps to staying safe on the roads during load shedding
During load shedding, there are several things that drivers can do to stay safe on the roads. Firstly, it is essential to be patient and take extra precautions. This means reducing your speed and increasing your following distance to ensure that you have enough time to react to any unexpected obstacles or hazards on the road. You should also be prepared for sudden stops or slowdowns, especially in areas with poor visibility or high traffic volumes. Remember #3secondsforlife!
Secondly, it’s crucial to be aware of your surroundings and keep an eye out for other drivers who may be driving recklessly or erratically. Load shedding can be stressful for everyone on the road, and some drivers may become impatient or frustrated. This can lead to risky behaviors such as speeding, tailgating, or cutting in front of other vehicles. To stay safe, make sure to stay alert and focused on the road, anticipate potential hazards, and avoid any unnecessary risks. Remember #3secondsforlife!
Finally, if you come across a traffic light that is not working during load shedding, treat it as a four-way stop, and follow the standard right-of-way rules. This means that the first vehicle to arrive at the intersection has the right of way, followed by the next vehicle to arrive and so on. Make sure to come to a complete stop at the intersection, look both ways before proceeding, and only enter the intersection when it is safe to do so. Remember #3secondsforlife!
In conclusion, load shedding has a significant impact on road safety, and it’s essential to take extra precautions during power cuts. By being patient, vigilant, and aware of your surroundings, you can reduce the risk of accidents and stay safe on the roads.
