{
  "id": 9510632,
  "title": "Heritage Day rush: RTMC warns drivers as long-weekend traffic spikes",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/09/24/heritage-day-rush-rtmc-warns-drivers-as-long-weekend-traffic-spikes",
  "topic": "world",
  "section": "World",
  "published": "2026-09-24T07:05:00.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "IOL",
    "slug": "iol",
    "url": "https://iol.co.za/news/politics/2026-09-24-heritage-day-rush-rtmc-warns-drivers-as-long-weekend-traffic-spikes/"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Motorists have been warned to prioritize road safety as Heritage Day brings increased traffic and long-weekend travel. The Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC) has urged caution on major routes and around popular destinations, as families make use of the holiday to visit relatives and engage in holiday activities. The RTMC has advised motorists to check traffic and weather conditions before departing, allowing ample time for journeys and avoiding unnecessary risks. Vehicles should be roadworthy, and drivers must obey speed limits, adjust speed according to conditions, and never drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Mobile phones should not be used while driving, and maintaining a safe following distance is essential. All occupants must wear seat belts, and children should be securely restrained in appropriate child-restraint systems. Those with long journeys ahead should take regular breaks and avoid driving when tired. Extra caution is recommended around pedestrians, cyclists, motorcyclists, and children, particularly in residential areas and recreational facilities. Parents and caregivers are encouraged to remind children about pedestrian safety near busy roads, shopping centers, public transport, and holiday destinations. The RTMC has emphasized the importance of arriving safely, urging drivers to slow down, stay alert, and make safety a priority on the Heritage Day long weekend and during the school closure.",
  "summary": "The RTMC has warned motorists to prepare for increased traffic this Heritage Day, urging them to check their vehicles, follow road safety rules and avoid unnecessary risks.",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 2,
    "also_reported_by": [
      {
        "outlet": "SABC News",
        "title": "NSRI warns of strong spring tide over Heritage Day weekend",
        "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/09/24/nsri-warns-of-strong-spring-tide-over-heritage-day-weekend",
        "published": "2026-09-24T10:38:55.000Z"
      }
    ]
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}