Mitchell’s Plain and Khayelitsha scholar transport drivers were schooled at a defensive driving workshop initiative to improve road safety.

The programme was presented to drivers by the Western Cape Government’s department of mobility and the Road Accident Fund at West End Primary School, in Lentegeur, on Wednesday October 16.

Retired Western Cape traffic chief Kenny Africa talked participants through a booklet entitled “The principles of advanced defensive driving skills” - imploring them to use both their physical and mental skills to prevent and avoid potential hazards.

Qualities of a defensive driver includes being sober and alert; observant and pro-active; responsible and courteous; emotionally mature; aware of his or her capabilities; familiar with his or her vehicle; aware of the environment; and compliant with the road traffic rules and regulations.

“Avoid all distractions. Do not use your cellphone when driving. It is not worth it,” he said.

According to the booklet: “Talking on your mobile increases your chances of being involved in a crash by four times, whilst texting increases that chance by up to seven times.”

Mr Africa said: “You cannot play with other people’s lives. Make sure your vehicle is roadworthy.”

He spoke about drivers being tired on the road.

“Fatigue is a silent killer. Before you take on the long road make sure you are rested. Take breaks every 200km or two hours. Make sure you are refreshed,” he said.

Among the participants were representatives from the Western Cape Scholar Transport board, which was established last year.

Board chairman Denver van Aarde, who is also the chairman of Mitchell’s Plain Scholar Drivers’ Project, said they would like all drivers and operators to unite so they can improve their relationship with the government, including the departments of education and mobility.

“We want to represent you and ensure that drivers are upskilled and are informed about legislation and formalise the scholar transport industry,” he said.

“We need to ensure the safety of our children,” he said.

The programme is open to seven- and 16-seater scholar transport operators and drivers, who have existing contracts or arrangements with parents or guardians operating in Cape Town.

Participants were due to receive comprehensive defensive driver training; the installation of a tracking device and telematics tracking device to monitor driver behaviour; a First Aid Level 1 Course for drivers or operators; a first aid kit and fire extinguisher fitted in vehicles; and free entry into the RAF-sponsored competition.

Successful Capetonian scholar transport drivers and operators who participate in the 12-month programme could enter a national competition to win a Quantum,and cash prizes from R100 000 to R25 000.

Mitchell’s Plain and Khayelitsha scholar transport drivers and operators at a defensive driving workshop.

The booklet compiled by Ashref Ismail, chief instructor and founder of Fleetmax Africa - Drive4Life in association with Motus Toyota list 14-rules:

1. Obey all traffic rules and regulations at all times

2. Buckle up

3. Adopt the commentary driving system, where you speak out loud all the dangers (stationary or moving) you see in front, behind and on the sides. “Look far ahead - the faster you travel the further you should look,” reads the booklet.

4. Drive with mechanical sympathy - in such a way that you are always smooth, balanced and gentle when it comes to acceleration, braking and cornering.

5. Follow the system of vehicle control - ensure that the vehicle is stable at all times.

6. Manage your speed effectively - drive within the legal speed limits and also adjust your speed according to prevailing conditions.

7. Avoid distracted driving.

8. Ensure your vehicle is roadworthy at all times.

9. Be physically, mentally and emotionally fit on the road.

10. Be aware of pedestrians.

11. Be familiar with and obey all road signs and traffic signals.

12. Overloading should be avoided at all times.

13. The use of alcohol and narcotic substances - mind altering drugs whilst driving are strictly prohibited.

14. Tyre management - check for tread depth, unusual wear, damage to the side wall and possible bubbles.

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