Since the start of the summer holiday, consistently busy traffic conditions have been experienced on the N3 Toll Route, says Thania Dhoogra, chief operating officer of N3 Toll Concession (N3TC), the company responsible for managing the route between Cedara in KwaZulu-Natal and Heidelberg in Gauteng.

“These conditions are expected to continue in the next days, particularly in a southbound direction.

At peak times, traffic volumes of between 12 000 and 13 000 vehicles per day have been recorded at our busiest toll plazas, Mooi and De Hoek, and similar high traffic volumes are expected on Wednesday, 24 December.

Northbound traffic (towards Gauteng) is likely to increase from Sunday, 28 December, as some holidaymakers are expected to begin their return journeys ahead of the New Year,” she explains.

Unpredictable weather puts strain on drivers
In addition to the heavy traffic volumes, the holiday travel season has thus far been characterised by unpredictable weather, including almost daily thunderstorms, heavy rainfall, and misty conditions causing poor visibility.

All indications are that these adverse weather conditions will persist in the coming days, placing additional strain on motorists.

“Be prepared for possible congestion and delays, and make allowances for unexpected events when planning your trip. Remain alert and patient when conditions become challenging,” advises Ms Dhoogra.

“Ask your passengers to help you stay informed about road and traffic conditions along your route by following @n3route on X.

Informed drivers are better able to adapt to changing conditions and to anticipate, navigate or avoid dangerous situations with confidence and competence.”

High-occupancy vehicles, high-impact consequences
N3TC has noted with concern that a disproportionately high number of public transport vehicles, especially minibus taxis, continue to be involved in crashes on South African roads, including along the N3 Toll Route.

“It is a devastating reality that a single public transport vehicle crash often results in multiple serious injuries or fatalities,” says Ms Dhoogra.

“Crash data shows that approximately 81% of incidents recorded on the N3 Toll Route are the result of human error, while vehicle breakdowns (including tyre bursts and brake failures) contribute to around 9% of crashes.”

Rain was cited as a contributory factor in 21.7% of crashes recorded this year. Ms Dhoogra explains that “the majority of crashes that occur during adverse weather are often far more severe, a similar trend to crashes that occur at night.”

Driving in poor weather or at night presents unique risks. Reduced visibility, driver distraction, fatigue or drowsiness, and a diminished ability to judge speed and distance, significantly increase the likelihood of serious or fatal crashes.

Master safe driving skills to protect lives
N3TC urges all motorists to obey the rules of the road and adhere to safety regulations. Aggressive and impatient driving behaviour including tailgating, speeding, frequent lane changes, and flashing of headlights are not mere irritations—they are serious road safety threats that increase both crash risks and have legal consequences.

“Mastering safe driving skills, staying informed, remaining patient and alert, and ensuring your vehicle is in a good condition are the real game-changers for a safe and trouble-free holiday journey,” concludes Ms Dhoogra. “Let’s all commit to making this a peaceful and joyous time for everyone by driving with Ubuntu and sharing the N3 Toll Route responsibly.”

Motorists are encouraged to follow @N3Route on X for real-time, verified traffic updates, or contact the 24-hour N3 Helpline on 0800 63 43 57 to report emergencies or obtain swift assistance along the N3 Toll Route between Cedara and Heidelberg.
ENDS.

Issued by: N3 Toll Concession (N3TC