Visitors wished a very safe, sunny and enjoyable season at a roadblock
Tourists visiting the Overstrand were pulled over by Traffic Officers during a ‘Welcome in Hermanus Roadblock’ at the Sandbaai intersection on Thursday, 15 December. Similar roadblocks were held in Kleinmond and Gansbaai with the assistance of SAPS, tourism offices, Cape Nature and members of the Walking Bus Initiative.
A total of 245 vehicles were stopped and 20 alcohol screening test have been conducted.
Xen Titus, Superintendent: Traffic Services said “manual traffic counts were also done and the highest count incoming vehicles (565) were between 16:00 - 17:00”. He added that “high visibility of traffic officers and other role players made a huge impact on driver behaviour.”
The aim with roadblocks of this nature is not only to wish visitors to the Overstrand a very warm welcome, but also to offer safety tips to road users and to ensure that everyone who uses our roads refrain from driving under the influence, adhere to safe driving practices and are duly licensed to be behind the wheel of the vehicle they happen to be driving.
Mayor Rudolph Smith and fellow councillors greeted drivers and their passengers by shaking hands and exchanging smiles. He also wished all the holidaymakers a safe and enjoyable holiday in our area.
Motorists that were stopped in the friendly roadblock received a goody bag with information on places to visit during the holidays and things to do in the Overstrand, tips on long distance travelling and road safety, a copy of the Hermanus News and various other small gifts.
“We wish you a safe, sunny and enjoyable season, be mindful of fellow visitors, and please remember not to leave any litter behind on our beaches and in towns,” said Mayor Smith.
A special appeal is made to motorists to adhere to the following basics:
- Never drink and drive. If you intend to consume alcohol, make alternative arrangements so that you will not have to get behind the wheel.
- Don’t text and drive: #ItCanWait!
- Never leave items such as cell phones, wallets and other valuables in plain sight, unattended or on the seat next to you. Always stow your valuables in the boot of your car.
- Always make sure you and your passengers are buckled up.
- Always adhere to the speed limit - driving too fast will result in a hefty fine, but driving too slow can be hazardous too.
- Maintain a safe following distance and check your blind spot before changing lanes.
