Motorists driving on the N7 highway have again been warned to be vigilant when using the stretch near Richwood and Dunoon.
This comes after a truck recently damaged its wheels when it apparently drove over some rocks which were placed in the middle of the road.
The incident occurred in the early hours of Friday 17 June around 00:47. The truck’s tyre burst upon impact, explains Glenn Marais, chair of the Richwood Neighbourhood Watch, who saw the incident on CCTV cameras.
“First a truck tyre burst, which sounded like an explosion, but then I heard the sound of a tyre flapping.”
Marais says crowds started running towards the truck immediately and stole sacks of lemons. “The driver ran off which was for his own safety.”
The police and armed response companies were also called out to the scene.
Marais says a taxi was also involved in an accident that same evening.
“A brick was thrown at a taxi travelling on the N7 further down, direction towards Goodwood. It landed on the other side of the N7, facing direction Malibongwe Drive.”
Injuries were sustained in the accident.
“A person was trapped and his leg severely injured.”
The patient was treated and transported to hospital.
“Reports were received that the injured were robbed and the contents inside of the taxi was stolen,” says Marais.
He adds: “All this mayhem was caused by rocks placed in the road, which resulted in these two unnecessary incidents.”
Marais last week shared a few safety tips which could be helpful in case of such a scenario.
“Firstly, if you can, use an alternative route especially at night. Make sure your vehicle is roadworthy which includes a jack, wheel brace and a spare wheel. Never drive your vehicle with low fuel. Ensure that you have sufficient fuel for your trip,” Marais warns.
He said motorists should also try to travel at reasonable speeds to ensure that evasive action can be taken if they suddenly encounter rocks in the road.
“At high speeds you will not have that time (to react) and could end up losing control of your vehicle and crash.
“Drive at a safe speed. A thrown rock or stone will smash through your windscreen easier at high speed and you will sustain more serious injury,” he warns.
Motorists are also advised to drive with their brights on.
“You can see further, but change to dims for oncoming vehicles.”
Marais says it is also advisable to inform people or family of your route and have your cellphone at full charge if you need to contact someone.
People should also not travel alone, he says.
“Store your armed response company, the police or neighbourhood watch numbers on your phone. Contact them immediately if you break down on the N7. They will either come to your assistance or get assistance to you as soon as possible.”
Motorists should also keep their doors locked at all times, he says.
“Do not stop if flagged down by some unknown person. Keep driving. If you see someone or something laying in the road, do not stop. Go around it and move off.”
Only once in a safe zone should you notify the police.
“If you are more than one person and your car breaks down, try and push your vehicle to a safe zone, but keep monitoring your surroundings. Never fight back if you are stranded and you’re being robbed. Give them what they want.
“Your life is more valuable than a cellphone, jewellery and a few rands,” says Marais.
TygerBurger is still waiting on comment from the Bothasig police.
