As South Africans prepare for the Easter long weekend, one of the busiest travel periods on the calendar, traffic volumes are expected to surge across major routes including the N1, N3 and N4.

With recent heavy rains in parts of the country and rising fuel costs likely influencing travel patterns, motorists are urged to be extra cautious on the roads.

Unfortunately, Easter is also a time when road accidents and breakdowns increase. The South African Motor Body Repairers’ Association (SAMBRA), a proud association of the Retail Motor Industry Organisation (RMI), reminds motorists to stay calm and follow three essential steps to manage these stressful situations safely and responsibly.

In the case of an accident:

Step 1: Check

• Stop your vehicle (if possible), switch on your hazard lights, and assess your surroundings.
• Take photos of the accident scene from multiple angles before moving any vehicles.
• Check for injuries. If anyone is hurt, do not move them or the vehicles unless absolutely necessary.
• Wait for emergency services to take control of the scene.

Step 2: Call

• If there are injuries, call 112 from a mobile phone or 10177 from a landline.
• Report the accident to the police within 24 hours, or as soon as possible if delayed due to injury.
• Notify your insurer, even if you do not intend to claim.

Step 3: Record

Collect key information from all parties involved:

• Names, ID numbers and contact details
• Vehicle details (registration, make, model and colour)
• Details of emergency personnel on the scene
• Time, location, road conditions and visibility

SAMBRA cautions motorists never to admit liability at the scene.

“Leave this to the authorities and your insurer,” says Juan Hanekom, national director of SAMBRA. He also warns against unauthorised towing. “If you are insured, always contact your insurer’s emergency line. If uninsured, insist on a written quotation upfront, including towing and storage fees.”

Reporting crashes online with NaTIS

Motorists can report minor crashes online via the NaTIS system, avoiding a trip to the police station, provided certain conditions are met.

Key points to remember:

• Minor crashes must be reported within 24 hours or the next working day
• A Crash Report Number (CRN) will be issued for insurance purposes
• Crashes involving injuries, fatalities, hit-and-runs, or five or more vehicles must still be reported at a police station
• The service is free, although future data access charges may apply

In the event of a breakdown:

Hanekom says breakdowns can be especially dangerous during peak holiday traffic and wet weather conditions.

If your vehicle breaks down:

1.            Move your vehicle off the road if it is safe and switch on hazard lights

2.            Place a warning triangle behind your vehicle

3.            Contact your roadside assistance provider or insurer

4.            Seek help from an accredited SAMBRA workshop

5.            Keep your fuel tank topped up whenever possible and factor in possible fuel shortages along the way. Running too low increases the risk of being stranded, particularly during busy travel periods or if there are fuel shortages along your route.

With increased traffic, unpredictable weather,  potential fuel shortages and tighter travel budgets this Easter, preparation and awareness are key. By staying calm, keeping your vehicle fuelled, and following the correct steps, motorists can better manage the unexpected and keep themselves and others safe on the road.