Beware the invisible risks during winter road travels

Safety travel tips for the country’s most scenic routes

As winter school holidays begin across South Africa, families and travellers may be packing up and hitting the road in search of snow-capped mountains, country towns and scenic coastal getaways. But while the open road promises adventure, it also demands caution—especially in winter, according to Xolisa Bangazi, Managing Director of PEG, part of JSE-listed KAL Group and a leading independent fuel and convenience retailer.

South Africa's diverse terrain—from the mountain passes of Ceres and other parts of the Western Cape to the high-altitude roads of the Free State and Eastern Cape—is especially prone to winter hazards like snow, fog, rain, and black ice. Just last month, heavy snowfall and disruptive rain led to flooding causing major road closures and multiple accidents in the Eastern Cape.

And the statistics tell a grim story: South Africa was ranked this year as the most dangerous country to drive in, according to Zutobi’s 2024 global report The World’s Safest and Most Dangerous Roads. The Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC) also recently warned that winter conditions are a significant contributor to fatalities, with June averaging over 1,000 deaths annually in the past four years.

Bangazi says that one of the most treacherous risks is ice that forms on road surfaces—especially black ice, which is virtually invisible and can cause vehicles to skid uncontrollably.

“Drivers often don’t realise how little traction they have until it’s too late,” says Bangazi. “And overconfidence in vehicle capabilities, like relying on four-wheel drive, can actually increase the danger if people don’t adjust their driving.”

PEG’s roadside teams see the consequences of poor preparation all too often. “At our forecourts, we regularly assist customers who’ve neglected the basics—bald tyres, faulty windscreen wipers, even missing spares,” he says. “We always advise a vehicle check-up before any long journey, particularly in winter.”

With traffic volumes also rising over the holiday period, PEG begins preparations months in advance to ensure quick, friendly service at both its forecourts and convenience retail outlets. But the company is calling on drivers to do their part too.

Before you set off on your winter road trip, here are some practical safety tips from Bangazi to keep in mind:

• Do your homework: Research whether it’s prone to flooding, rockfalls, or storm damage. Local forums or community groups often provide real-time, on-the-ground updates. This is especially important if you are heading out to unfamiliar territory on spontaneous trips to go and see snow, for example.
• If bad weather is forecast, rethink your plans: Snowfall or heavy rains can make roads slick and treacherous and result in road closures and restrictions. Local authorities will usually advise against travel, unless it's essential.
• Watch the wind: Strong winds can make driving, especially in open or coastal areas, more difficult. Keep a firm grip on the steering wheel, reduce speed, and give high-sided vehicles extra space.
• Use real-time navigation tools: Apps like Google Maps and Waze provide real-time alerts for road closures, accidents, or dangerous conditions ahead, helping you adjust your route on the go.
• Find refuge: Frequent rest breaks reduce fatigue – a major cause of road accidents – and encourages travellers to make use of the convenience offered by modern-day full-service fuel stations. Fuel stations these days aren't simply places to fill up – they are vital convenience hubs for rest, refreshment, and safety during long journeys, particularly for families, long-distance truckers, and holidaymakers.
• Know when to turn back: If the conditions feel unsafe, it’s okay to turn back. A delayed arrival is always better than a dangerous journey.

“Whether you're chasing misty mountain mornings or coastal sunsets, a well-planned road trip can help you make the most of South Africa’s winter wonders, safely,” concludes Bangazi.