Website to help plan your trip

But help is at hand in the shape of the Automobile Association's website (www.aa.co.za) which publishes a comprehensive Road Condition Report that is updated every Friday.

It details everything from rock falls on Chapman's Peak and a possible alternative route to lane closures on the N4 near Belfast due to road maintenance that could result in delays.

Most of the frustrations suffered by motorists stem from road conditions, delays and detours and not being aware of them and being unable to plan round them.

“South Africa's road network is vast and ensuring the accuracy of reported road conditions nationwide is a challenge,” says Colin Vergie, manager of Road and Touring information at the AA. “But it is a vital service to motorists, particularly those planning longer journeys, and is available as a result of the AA's massive infrastructure across the country.”

“While the information cannot record every pothole in Sandton, the service is invaluable for planning longer trips or for those on the open road for business regularly,” says Vergie.

The AA advises motorists to drive according to the prevailing conditions whenever road construction, resealing or road markings are in progress. While the Road Condition Report cannot outline every detail of major trouble spots, motorists can expect to encounter detours, construction vehicles and equipment as well as workers and should take the necessary precautions.

The AA the Road Condition Report is based on information collected and received from various external sources such as road, traffic and police authorities, contractors responsible for road maintenance, and AA members.

Road users should remember that weather conditions and other factors can also quickly affect road conditions.

“We take all reasonable steps to ensure that the information contained in the report is correct and up to date but it should be used purely as a guideline for planning purposes to alleviate any undue stress once out on the road,” advises Vergie.

He suggested that motorists also use the website to familiarise themselves with the updated Toll Fees and to include that in the planning phase of long-distance trips.