N3 Toll Concession urges caution as return traffic builds on major route
Motorists warned of congestion and increased controls on N3 Toll Route. .
Image: Armand Hough/Independent Newspapers
Heavy traffic volumes are expected on the N3 Toll Route in a northbound direction towards Gauteng from Friday afternoon and throughout the weekend as holidaymakers continue their return journeys.
The N3 Toll Concession (N3TC) has warned that irresponsible driving behaviour remains a significant contributor to crashes recorded along the route during the recent holiday period, particularly amid busy traffic conditions and adverse weather.
“N3TC and our road safety partners appeal to all motorists to work with us to make our roads safe for everyone,” said Thania Dhoogra, chief operating officer of N3 Toll Concession.
Dhoogra expressed concern over what she described as a growing disregard for road rules, noting that several incidents were linked to reckless behaviour combined with wet road conditions.
“It is extremely concerning that many crashes recorded thus far resulted from general lawlessness combined with busy traffic conditions and wet weather,” she said. “Despite a highly visible blue-light presence, repeated warnings and continued appeals for circumspect driving, some road users continue to drive with impunity, placing everyone at serious risk.”
She highlighted that the N3 Toll Route is one of South Africa’s most important economic corridors, carrying large volumes of heavy freight vehicles alongside passenger traffic.
“This mix of vehicle types creates significant differences in speed, braking distance and visibility, increasing risk when road users are impatient or inattentive,” Dhoogra said.
“Trucks need far more space to slow down or stop. Never cut in sharply in front of a heavy vehicle, avoid blind spots, maintain steady speeds, and only overtake when visibility and distance allow you to do so safely.”
Motorists have been urged to plan ahead and remain vigilant as weather and traffic conditions change.
“Motorists are urged to stay alert and informed of changing weather, road and traffic conditions, and to allow extra travel time. Adhere to warnings, reduce speed, keep headlights switched on, maintain safe following distances, drive defensively, and take preventative measures to avoid becoming a road statistic,” Dhoogra said.
She added that congestion, particularly during periods of heavy rainfall, further increases risks on the route. “Exercise extra caution during congestion. Slow-moving traffic places additional pressure on drivers, particularly when compounded by thunderstorms, wet roads and poor visibility.”
In response to anticipated traffic volumes, road incident management systems, visible policing and emergency services will be intensified along the N3 Toll Route, with multi-disciplinary teams deployed at various safety checkpoints.
The Roads Traffic Inspectorate may also introduce additional traffic control measures if required, particularly on Van Reenen Pass.
Dhoogra appealed to motorists to cooperate should such measures be implemented.
“Please remain courteous, patient, and alert, especially if these measures are required. Never attempt to make up for lost time by speeding when traffic begins to flow more freely,” she warned. “A few minutes saved are not worth risking lives. Drive responsibly so that we all arrive home safely, with our lives, hopes and dreams intact, and good memories to share.”
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