Increased Vigilance Urged for Spike Attacks in South Africa

Motorists in South Africa are advised to be vigilant against an increase in spike attacks on roads, with warnings to adjust driving behavior to prevent incidents. The Gauteng Department of Health is working on improving services at Helen Joseph Hospital after revealing poor conditions. Additionally, the ongoing trial for the disappearance of six-year-old Joshlin Smith gathers more witness testimonies that may shed light on the case.

Motorists in South Africa are being strongly advised to be more vigilant due to a notable rise in spike-related incidents on the country’s roads. MasterDrive CEO Eugene Herbert indicated that spikes are often obscured by common objects like plastic bags or clothing, making them challenging to spot at any time of day. High-traffic routes, including the N1, N12, N14, N4, R566, and R80, have reported such incidents. Drivers are encouraged to keep a safe distance from other vehicles, reduce their speed, and avoid driving over any suspicious items. Should a vehicle encounter spikes, it is advisable to slow down to 40 km/h, proceed to a secure location, and avoid stopping. In rural areas, planning routes in advance, reducing speed, and utilizing alternative lanes can help mitigate the risk of spike encounters. Additionally, it is important to alert authorities after passing a spike to prevent subsequent incidents.

Recent reports highlight that the rise in spikes on South African roads poses a serious risk to motorists, necessitating enhanced caution and awareness. Important measures include maintaining safe distances, adhering to speed recommendations, and notifying authorities after encountering spikes. Meanwhile, the Gauteng Department of Health is addressing the poor service at Helen Joseph Hospital, pledging to implement recommendations for improvement. Lastly, the trial surrounding the disappearance of Joshlin Smith continues to unfold, with new witness testimonies impacting the ongoing investigation.

Original Source: allafrica.com