South Africa

Truck Stops & Road Safety

Background Information

A Truck Stop is an eating establishment, usually located near a busy road, with a large parking area for trucks and other heavy vehicles. The stop usually offers a range of services for professional truck drivers to rest and refresh themselves, often with accommodation and other services available.

In South Africa the road traffic data indicates that:

In January 2006 more than 244 000 trucks were moving freight across the country.
In January alone 1 875 trucks were sold – an indication that road freight transport is growing with enormous speed.
There is a high rate of accidents and one of the factors that have been identified as contributing to this problem is fatigue, and this includes truckers, especially with the distances they have to travel transporting goods.
There is a need for convenient, safe and comfortable truck stops on all major road freight routes around South Africa.

Research on Drowsiness / Driver Tiredness amongst Truck Drivers

Driver tiredness poses a significant risk to road safety – and several studies have indicated that this problem is experienced daily by Truck drivers

International Research:

In a study in the US more than 36 percent of truck drivers said that finding a rest area in which to park is a problem every night.
More than 80 percent said that at least once a week, they continue to drive past the point of feeling "safe and alert" because they cannot find a place to stop and rest.
Factors which discouraged Truck Drivers from parking in public rest areas in New York included inadequate parking, enforcement of the two-hour parking limit, prostitution, lack of security, and poor or expensive food.
In a 1997 survey of 593 long-distance truck drivers randomly selected at private truck stops and public rest areas in New York, 25 percent of the drivers said that at least once during the last year, they had fallen asleep while driving - and 17 percent said it occurred on more than one occasion.

South African Research:

In South Africa a research study has been conducted by Nelisiwe Magubane & Mala Ramanna from the Interdisciplinary Accident Research Centre of KwaZulu –Natal on the topic “Truck Drivers and Road Crashes in South Africa”

This study concluded amongst other findings:

Main problems experienced by truck drivers: 39% Fatigue related
Main causes of road crashes: 41% fatigue related

The recommendations from this research include the following:

There should be government legislation that forces drivers to stop between 11pm and 5am for compulsory rest. Most drivers sleep for +-4hrs per 24hr.
Companies should allow drivers more family time. This will stop the use of prostitutes but also de-stress drivers.
More safe and clean truck stops are needed. Alternatively, along the route there should be lay-bys constructed with stadium lights and security so that drivers can sleep in relative safety. This is especially so on the N3 because drivers regard this national highway as dangerous.
Trucks should be fitted with communication devices, e.g. two-way radios. This can act as a mechanism to warn other drivers of possible hijacking situations or as a tool to ensure the safety of the truck and driver.
Almost all truck drivers are interested in participating in any government road safety strategy that will improve and promote their skill.
Drivers need to attend regular driver training courses to improve their skill as well as stop complacency. Further, there should be relevant training courses for truck drivers that carry specialized/ dangerous goods e.g. chemicals.

Also visit:

HIV / Aids and Truck Drivers

The transfer of HIV/ Aids and sexually transmitted infections is a growing concern in the transport industry.
These threats can only be addressed by way of the partnerships of our society: government and the private sector; workers and management; transport operators and commuters.
Truck Stops can be an important part of the strategy to protect Truck Drivers against these and other illnesses and provide information on these risks

Transport Authorities, Truck Stops and Road Safety

At the opening of Engen Highway Junction on the 28th of May 1999, the Minister of Transport, Mac Maharaj, emphasized that the road freight sector and its associated stakeholders were the first business sectors in South Africa to forge ahead in a partnership with government, employers, unions and NGOs on board to tackle the crisis of road safety in the road freight industry.
In 2005 the Department of Transport launched the National Freight Logistics Strategy.
This Strategy addresses issues of “reducing the cost of logistics to the economy" and ensures "that social and economic objectives are met within the freight logistics systems".
The commitment to the National Freight Logistics Strategy was further strengthened with the official opening of the Ventersburg Truck Stop by Minister of Transport, Jeff Radebe on the 3rd of March 2006.
Government, via the Department of Transport (DoT) and the South African National Roads Agency Ltd (SANRAL) have initiated a programme whereby new truck stops are being built to improve truck transport efficiencies and driver job satisfaction, while simultaneously empowering local communities.
Nazir Ali, CEO of the South African National Road Agency reiterated that these Truck Stops represent a coming together of different departments of government to promote road safety and trucker rights.

Advantages/ Characteristics of modern Truck Stops

The best way to address driver fatigue/ driver tiredness by offering a good sleep
Security systems with cameras and lighting can prevent the threats of hijacking, theft etc
Increased sanitation with spotlessly clean ablution and shower facilities
High quality food
An excellent venue to address HIV education
An opportunity to boost the local economy with a continuous stream of travellers passing through
Additional income for local business providing truckers with various necessary services including food and drink, groceries as well as truck repair and parts provision.
A Medical facility and medical care provide an opportunity for truck drivers to check HIV/AIDS and diabetes status and have their eyes tested."
These facilities may have phones so truckers can safely call families and conduct other business during their meal breaks
Modern Truck Stops have high speed wireless internet access and an internet kiosk

It is envisaged that Trucks Stops will make a significant contribution towards road safety in South Africa.

K53 Driver Licence Test

K53 DRIVER LICENCE TEST

K53 is the term for the current driver licence test.
The number given to the test was based on proposals submitted in the 1980's and then the reworked versions were upgraded numerically.
Test number K53 was finally accepted as the way to test aspirant drivers.
This test fully involved / included / incorporated the System of Vehicle control.
The K53 test is, in fact, a copy of what was done in the UK in the 1980's.

LAW / REGULATIONS GOVERNING THE K53 LICENCE TEST

National Road Traffic Act, 1996
National Road Traffic Regulations, 1999
Chapter V : Fitness of Drivers
Part II : Learner's and driving licences
107. Manner and contents on which applicant for driving licence to be examined

An applicant for a driving licence shall be examined and tested by an examiner for driving licences.
The examiner for driving licences shall by observation, inquiry and practical test, satisfy himself or herself that the applicant –
- holds a learner's licence which authorises him or her to drive the class of motor vehicle to which his or her application relates;
- knows and understands the road traffic signs;
- has a sound knowledge of the rules of the road and the different signals which a driver of a motor vehicle is required to give when driving on a public road;
- is not subject to any disqualification referred to in section 15 of the Act read with regulation 102; and
- is generally capable of driving a motor vehicle of the class to which the application relates.
In the case where a person applies for a driving licence which authorises him or her to drive an articulated motor vehicle, or a combination of a motor vehicle and trailer, the practical test shall be conducted while the semi-trailer is attached to the truck-tractor, or the trailer is attached to the drawing vehicle, whichever the case may be.
For the purposes of subregulation (2) an applicant shall not be required to undergo a written test.
An examiner for driving licences shall in compliance with the provisions of paragraph (e) of subregulation (2) –
- in the case of a code B driving licence, test an applicant according to the manual of the Corporation "K 53 Practical driving test for motor vehicle drivers, Volume 1 - Light Motor Vehicles" published by the chief executive officer by notice in the Gazette;
- in the case of a code C1, C, EB, EC1 or EC driving licence, test an applicant according to the manual of the Corporation "K53 Practical driving test for motor vehicle drivers, Volume 2 - Heavy Motor Vehicles", published by the chief executive officer by notice in the Gazette; and
- in the case of a code A1 or A driving licence, test an applicant according to the manual of the Corporation "K53 Practical driving test for motor vehicle drivers, Volume 3 - Motor Cycles" published by the chief executive officer by notice in the Gazette.

NEW UPDATED K53 TEST MANUALS [TO BE IMPLEMENTED FROM 7 APRIL 2006]

Practical driving test for motor vehicle drivers - Volume 1 - Light Motor Vehicles - Code B - August 2005
Part 1 Part 2
Practical driving test for motor vehicle drivers - Volume 2 - Heavy Motor Vehicles - Codes C1, C, EC1 & EC - August 2005
Part 1 Part2
Practical driving test for motor vehicle drivers - Volume 4 - Light Motor Vehicles Combinations - Code EB - August 2005
Part 1 Part 2
Practical driving test for motorcycles - Volume 3 - Motorcycles - Codes A1 & A - August 2005
Part 1 Part2
Minimum Requirements for Registration and Retention of Grading for Driving Licence Testing Centres
Requirements

The new K53 test manuals for the driving licence test are available at the Government Printers Works Publication Store, 196 Paul Kruger street, Pretoria. It sell at R43.18 per manual. Contact Ms. Maureen Toka at 012 334 4507 for more information.

Also view:

K53 Mobile Application to Test Your Knowledge of the Rules of the Road

SA Learners Tests

History to the K53 Driving Test

Hijack Prevention Guidelines

Introduction:

It has become increasingly difficult to steal motor vehicles, with all the anti-theft devices, such as immobilisers, gear-locks, etc. These steps have resulted in a dramatic increase in vehicle hijackings. The hijacker has the element of surprise and this is a concern. The increasing retrenchment and the high unemployment figures are also factors. This is easy earned money and the already well-established syndicates will buy these vehicles from the hijacker. Vehicle hijacking is an organised business, run according to business principles and based on thorough planning. Specific vehicles with specific characteristics are ordered beforehand and efforts have to be made to meet the requirements of such orders. These vehicles will then be resold to the already predetermined buyer.

The hijacked vehicles that are not sold to buyers in South Africa, will be smuggled out of the country. These vehicles will be sold in our neighbouring countries or trade, exchanged for drugs.

The large number of stolen and unlicensed firearms is also a concern. Most of these firearms are bought or supplied to the robbers by the syndicates. This easy access to firearms make the robbery of a vehicle the easiest crime to commit and by far the quickest way of earning a few thousand rand.

It is obvious that vehicle hijackers are motivated by greed and an insatiable need for more and more comfort, rather than need. An insatiable hunger for power is another theme emerging in robbers. The power-base for the latter is presented by the access to firearms. Possession of a firearm forces everybody to obey or else face the consequences.

Definition:

Vehicle hijacking forms one of the sub-categories of armed robbery and does not constitute a different crime from armed robbery. Perpetrators would consequently be charged with “robbery with aggravating circumstances” in court, and not with “vehicle hijacking”. Robbery with aggravating circumstances can be defined as the unlawful, intentional and violent removal and appropriation of movable corporeal property belonging to another. The victim’s resistance has to be overcome and the property obtained by the use of violence against the victim’s person.

If the victim is first injured by the perpetrator and then dispossessed of property while being physically incapacitated, armed robbery is likewise committed. However, the victim needs not necessarily be physically incapacitated. In the absence of actual physical violence, a threat to commit violence against the victim is sufficient. The threat of violence may be of an express or implied nature. Vehicle hijacking neatly fits the above definition, with the property involved being specifically a motor vehicle of some kind.

Days of the week and time of day in which hijackings occurred:

The analysis indicated that hijackings occur every day of the week, reaching a high on Fridays, due to motorists being more relaxed and traffic increasing earlier on a Friday. Weekends show a lower hijacking rate due to syndicates checking their stock and placing orders on Mondays as well as the fact that there are fewer vehicles on the road. This also explains why Tuesdays and Wednesdays show more hijackings.

Hijacking of vehicles reached its lowest point at 02h00 in the morning. Hijackings are low during the night and early hours of the morning, and start increasing at 06h00 due to motorists leaving home for work and stabilises throughout the day.

A drastic increase occurred from 17h00 in the afternoon due to motorists heading towards home. Vehicles hijacked during this peak hour (16h00 – 20h00) may be explained by the fact that people returning from work are often tired, frustrated and not alert to potentially threatening circumstances. Negligence on behalf of the motorist could also not be excluded, e.g. an idling vehicle is left unattended to open a gate in the driveway. This trend is not new and the motorist will become the prey of hijackers.

Another explanation for this phenomenon is that highways are congested with traffic, which make it almost impossible to catch hijackers involved without air support once they have disappeared into traffic.

Weapons used during hijackings:

As it was earlier indicated, in the majority of vehicle hijackings, firearms were used to commit the crime. Gauteng and Kwa-Zulu Natal reported the highest incidence of vehicle hijacking. The circulation of illegal firearms in South Africa is disturbing and has to have a direct influence on the increase of vehicle hijackings and violent crime in general in South Africa.

The trade in stolen firearms is a lucrative industry in South Africa and the rewards seem to justify the risk of apprehension for the criminals involved. The punishment of crimes does not seem to have a deterrent effect on potential criminals anymore.

The analysis indicates that firearms most used are pistols and revolvers. A very small percentage of vehicle hijackings are committed using knifes, hands, high caliber guns and shotguns.

When to Shoot:

It is noticed with great concern that there is general confusion over the issue of the public shooting and killing or wounding another person under differing circumstances. People have a responsibility to protect themselves in a situation where they need to discharge a firearm in the process of self-protection.

What exactly are the legal requirements of self-defense? The following points are important:

The attack must be unlawful.
The attack must be imminent or have commenced.
The attack must not have been completed. One cannot act on grounds of self-defense for an attack committed an hour earlier.
The defensive action must be directed against the attacker.
The defensive action must be proportionate to the circumstances. The value of property involved and the instrument used for attack are important considerations.

The test used by the court to determine the lawfulness of the defensive action is that of a reasonable man. The question to be asked is whether a reasonable man in the same position would have done the same thing.

In all cases where a person is killed, the matter is investigated to establish if anyone was responsible for the death. This is the point when people perceive they are being charged with murder by the police and believe they cannot defend themselves against an unlawful attack without being charged. If your action is within the principles of self-defense, there is nothing to worry about.

Types of hijackings:

Freight Hijacking – A commercial vehicle is hijacked not only to secure the vehicle but also its cargo, which can be of substantial value. Frequently, the cargo is of more interest to the hijacker than the truck.

Transport Hijacking – The vehicle is taken for the express purpose of using it as transport during other crimes such as drug dealing, burglaries, bank robberies and gun running. The vehicles are probably later cannibalised for spare parts or simply dumped.

Showmanship Hijacking – A gang operates out of egotistical bravado, acting on the “this is a cool thing to be doing” rationale. Peer group pressure is very high and individuals may be coerced into more dangerous and daredevil approaches; being labeled a “sissy” if they don’t. Thus intimidation, violence and vandalism are associated with the crime. Drugs and alcohol may also be a motive as theft of the victim’s personal belongings is commonplace.

Operational Hijacking – A group formally work together in a more structured way. They usually have experience in car theft and have established contacts within the motorcar underworld that will receive and pay cash for stolen vehicles or spare parts.

Syndicate Hijacking – The most organised of all and often has international connections. A network of hijacking groups is established with the overall coordinator, syndicating out work so that he remains out of view in exactly the same way as the drug baron uses pushers. This makes identifying and arresting the ultimate boss

very difficult. Additionally, a syndicate is often backed by a lot of money, especially if there are international links and makes full use of any potential to bribe the authorities in order to protect their operations.

Modus Operandi used by the hijackers:

Most hijackings take place in the driveways of residential areas. These hijackers prefer areas with accessible escape routes.
Hijackings take place while stationed at any traffic sign or intersection.
Hijackings take place while stationary next to the road, e.g. to answer cell phone.
Hijackings also occur at post offices and parking areas or you may be followed leaving the filling station with the objective to hijack your vehicle where it is quiet.
The hijackers sometimes use a vehicle to force the victim off the road.
Hijackings take place at schools when dropping off / picking up children.
Hijackings take place while the vehicle is idling when off-loading / loading passengers.
Hijackings take place when advertising your vehicle for sale (Test drive method).
Bogus Police or Traffic Officers also conduct hijackings (Blue light scenario).

HOW TO AVOID A HIJACK SITUATION:

Approaching and entering your driveway:

2km from your house strategy. Be extra alert. Switch off the car radio and concentrate on your surroundings. If you have noticed any vehicle behind you, use the techniques you have learned during the hijack prevention & survival course to determine whether you are being followed.
Remember to stop your vehicle just on the inside of the gate and select reverse whilst waiting for the gate to close. This creates confusion and may buy you a few seconds for the gate to close completely behind you.
Check your driveway and street before you leave or enter your premises.
Make sure your driveway is well lit and clear from shrubbery where perpetrators can hide.
Be aware of unknown pedestrians close to your residential address – do not turn into your driveway – pass and go back later.
Liaise with your neighbours – know them.
Be aware of vehicles parked close to your address with occupants inside. It might be perpetrators observing the area.
Be alert if your animals do not greet you at the gate as usual. It might be that the perpetrators over-powered them.
Phone your home and ask for someone to make sure your driveway is safe and to open and close the gate for you.
When returning home after dark, ensure that an outside light is on, or have someone meet you at the gate. Check with your armed response company if they are rendering rendezvous services.
If at any time you have to open the gate yourself, make sure nobody suspicious around and the road is clear. Stop right in front of your gate. Do not switch off the vehicle, leave the key in the ignition, get out and close the door (not creating temptation). Then open the gate. Drive in and close the gate immediately behind you.
If you have small children in the vehicle, take the key with you (this is the only exception). You need the key as a “negotiating tool”. The perpetrators want your vehicle and you want your children.
If your children are older, it is advised that they exit the vehicle with you when opening the gate so that you are all separated from the vehicle should an attack occur.

Parking your vehicle:

Check rear-view mirror to ensure you are not being followed.
When exiting your vehicle, be cautious and aware of surrounding obstructions and shrubbery that may be concealing a hijacker.
Never sit in your parked vehicle without being conscious of your surroundings. Sleeping in a stationary vehicle is particularly dangerous.
When approaching your driveway, be on the lookout for suspicious vehicles / persons. This is very important as the majority of hijackers approach their victims in home driveways.

Whilst entering your vehicle and while driving, the following should be considered:

Have your key ready, but not visible.
Inspect the outside and inside of the vehicle before unlocking. Check underneath your vehicle for items placed under the wheels. Also make sure nobody is hiding on the passenger side before you enter your vehicle. (As explained during the hijack prevention & survival course)
Know your destination and directions to it; and be alert should you get lost.
Always drive with your windows closed and doors locked.
Make a mental note of any Police Stations in the vicinity.
When stopping behind another vehicle, leave half a vehicle length in front of your vehicle to make an emergency escape if necessary.
When dropping off a passenger, make sure they are safely in their own vehicle before departing.
Avoid driving through high crime or unfamiliar areas.
Avoid driving late at night / early hours of the morning when the roads are quiet.
Drive in the center lane away from pedestrians where possible.
If possible, never drive alone.
NEVER, EVER pick up hitchhikers or strangers. (VERY IMPORTANT)
Never follow routine routes when driving; change on a regular basis.

Other situations:

If approached by a stranger while in your vehicle, drive off if possible or use your hooter to attract attention.
Lock your doors, close your windows and do not have bags or briefcases visible in the vehicle. Use the boot for this. Cell phone should also not be visible.
There are times and days that these items are visible in the vehicle. Try and open the window they might “smash & grab” about 3 cm, so the window can absorb the sudden impact. If you’ve left your stopping distance you may be able to escape.
Be constantly on the lookout for suspicious looking characters or vehicles and do not hesitate to report them to the SAPS.
Always be on the alert for potential danger, and be on the lookout for possible escape routes and safe refuge along the way.
When approaching a red traffic light at night, slow down so that you only reach it when it turns green.
Do not take anything from people standing at traffic lights or places where they gather (job seekers on gathering points). Perpetrators are usually standing among these people.
Make sure you are not followed. If you suspect you are being followed, drive to the nearest Police Station or any busy public area.
If any person or vehicle in a high-risk area arouses your suspicions, treat it as hostile and take appropriate action, e.g. when approaching a red traffic light, slow down, check for oncoming traffic and if clear, drive through the intersection. A fine will be preferable to an attack. Treat stop streets in the same way. Thereafter call for assistance if necessary. Always report these incidents to the SAPS. But remember, this is not an excuse to ignore the rules of the road. The onus will be on you to prove in a court of law that you had justifiable reason to act the way you did and this is only in the case of a real, life-threatening emergency.
Should a suspicious vehicle in fact be a (unmarked) SAPS vehicle, the Police must identify themselves by:
- Use of a blue light, loudspeaker or any other police equipment.
- The flash of a badge through the window whilst driving is not enough.
- The Police must go all out in order to let the public know who they are.
Consider the following actions:
- Switch on emergency lights and put your hand out the window (if possible), indicating that they should follow you. Your intention must be very clear and understandable.
- By exceeding the speed limit, you are sending out a message of suspicion, e.g. stolen / hijacked vehicle, transporting stolen goods, under the influence.
- Drive to the nearest Police Station or when in doubt, the nearest busy public area.
Always have your identity document and driver’s license in your possession as well as a pen and notebook to take necessary notes.
If possible, avoid driving in the dark. Hijackers may stage a minor accident, for e.g. If your vehicle is bumped from behind and you do not feel comfortable with the individual involved in the situation, indicate he / she must follow you and drive to the nearest Police Station or any busy public area for help.
Never open your vehicle window or door for any stranger. If a suspicious person is near your unoccupied vehicle, do not approach the vehicle. Walk to the nearest public area and ask for assistance.
If you encounter obstacles in the road, e.g. rocks, tyres, do not get out of your vehicle to remove them. Reverse and drive away in the opposite direction.
Do not stop to eat or rest on deserted roads.
Do not leave your vehicle unattended at a filling station.
Cell phones should be carried on the body. Perpetrators will not allow you to remove your cell phone and valuables from the vehicle during an attack.

Information you should know:

If your vehicle is hijacked or stolen, promptly report it to the SAPS. Make sure you have the vehicle details: model, color, vehicle identification and registration numbers available to assist with the recovery of the vehicle.

When forced to drive with a hijacker, be observant without making direct eye contact and try to memorise as many details as possible.

It is important to describe the hijacker as accurately as possible. When observing a hijacker, take note of his head and face – the shape of the eyes, mouth, nose and ears. Take note of possible irregularities. Look at the hair, skin color, complexion and possible scars and tattoos. Observe the build, sex, body movement, clothing and any conversation that may take place.

Remember the direction from which they came and fled, as well as the time and place the incident happened.
Remember to make mental and physical notes immediately after the incident to ensure accurate and detailed information for the Police investigation.

Taken hostage - It can be helpful to have a survival plan in the back of your mind should such an incident occur. It is difficult not to become paranoid about being taken hostage. However, it is just as easy to become complacent.

One very important fact to remember when being hijacked:

Should the conclusion of the drama be by way of armed intervention, and escape is not possible, immediately drop to the ground, remain still and obey the orders of the leader.

If confronted:

Do not lose your temper, threaten or challenge the hijacker.
DO EXACTLY AS TOLD BY THE HIJACKERS!
Do not resist, especially if the hijacker has a weapon. Surrender your vehicle and move away. Try to put as much distance between yourself and the hijacker(s) as speedily as possible.
Do not reach for your purse or valuables. Leave everything in the vehicle.
Try to remain calm at all times and do not show signs of aggression.
Be compliant to all demands set by the perpetrator.
Do not make eye contact with the hijacker. He may perceive this behavior as a threat and retaliate aggressively.
Keep your hands still and visible to the hijacker, so as to give him assurance of your passive content.
Do not speak too fast (if you are able to talk) and do not make sudden movements.
Gather as much information as possible without posing a threat.
- How many people?
- How many firearms and description thereof?
- What were the perpetrators wearing (clothing)?
- To which direction did they drive off?
- Take note of the language they use (the accent).
First phone the SA Police Service on 08600 10111. They will dispatch the medical services if needed. Other emergency numbers you could phone are 112 ANY Network (Vodacom+MTN+Cell C) or 147 Vodacom ONLY.
Activate the vehicle-tracking device, if the vehicle is fitted with one.

The Effects of Trauma:

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

This is the term given to a particular range and combination of reactions following trauma. Reactions following trauma can be divided into three main groups:

Re-experiencing the event – a feeling that you are experiencing the original event all over again, through memories intruding into your waking or sleeping life.
Arousal reactions – you feel persistently aroused, nervous, agitated sense, anxious, tense, unable to settle or concentrate, over-reacting very sharply to small things and especially, having trouble sleeping.
Avoidance reactions – you make frantic efforts to avoid anything that could remind you of the trauma, or cause you to think or talk about it in any way. You may shut down your feelings about other people and things you normally care about and keep to yourself. You may feel unusually withdrawn and emotionally numb.

Five stages of trauma / loss:

Denial
Anger
Bargaining
Depression
Acceptance

The following is some general advice to help you cope with trauma in general and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder in particular:

Do:

Express your emotions.
Talk about what has happened as often as you need to. Seek trauma counselling.
Try to keep your life as normal as possible by following daily routines.
Find opportunities to review the experience.
Look to friends and colleagues for support.

Don’t:

Use alcohol, nicotine or other drugs to hide your feelings.
Simply stay away from work or isolate yourself. Seek help and support instead (counselling).
Allow anger and irritability to mask your feelings.
Hide your feelings and be afraid to ask for help.
Think your feelings are a sign of weakness.

Protecting Yourself against Hijackings

Amidst the increase in hijackings in South Africa, it is very important to know some of the following aspects:

How do the hijackers operate?
When am I most at risk?
How do I avoid being hijacked?
What do I do when confronted?

HOW TO AVOID A HIJACK SITUATION

Sterling work has been done by specialists such as Richard and Melinda Rossouw of the National Hijack Prevention Academy [NHPA]. They have a vast experience in avoidance measures and also present driver training modules such as (a) Collision Avoidance/Skidpan and (b) Defensive Driving. They have made available to the public via the website www.hijack.co.za the following information on how to avoid a hijack situation. It is recommended to contact them via this website should you require further info on these and other courses.

Approaching and entering your driveway:

2km from your house strategy. Be extra alert. Switch off the car radio and concentrate on your surroundings. If you have noticed any vehicle behind you, use the techniques you have learned during the hijack prevention & survival course to determine whether you are being followed.
Remember to stop your vehicle just on the inside of the gate and select reverse whilst waiting for the gate to close. This creates confusion and may buy you a few seconds for the gate to close completely behind you.
Check your driveway and street before you leave or enter your premises.
Make sure your driveway is well lit and clear from shrubbery where perpetrators can hide.
Be aware of unknown pedestrians close to your residential address – do not turn into your driveway – pass and go back later.
Liaise with your neighbours – know them.
Be aware of vehicles parked close to your address with occupants inside. It might be perpetrators observing the area.
Be alert if your animals do not greet you at the gate as usual. It might be that the perpetrators over-powered them.
Phone your home and ask for someone to make sure your driveway is safe and to open and close the gate for you.
When returning home after dark, ensure that an outside light is on, or have someone meet you at the gate. Check with your armed response company if they are rendering rendezvous services.
If at any time you have to open the gate yourself, switch off the vehicle, leave the key in the ignition and close the door. Then open the gate.
If you have small children in the vehicle, take the key with you (this is the only exception). You then need the key as a “negotiating tool”. The perpetrators want your vehicle and you want your children.
If your children are older, it is advised that they exit the vehicle with you when opening the gate so that you are all separated from the vehicle should a hijack occur.

Parking your vehicle:

Check rear-view mirror to ensure you are not being followed.
When exiting your vehicle, be cautious and aware of surrounding obstructions and shrubbery that may be concealing a hijacker.
Never sit in your parked vehicle without being conscious of your surroundings. Sleeping in a stationary vehicle is particularly dangerous.
When approaching your driveway, be on the lookout for suspicious vehicles / persons. This is very important as the majority of hijackers approach their victims in home driveways.

Whilst entering your vehicle and while driving, the following should be considered:

Have your key ready, but not visible.
Inspect the outside and inside of the vehicle before unlocking. (Tyre, tyre, number plate, other side of the vehicle – as explained during the hijack prevention & survival course)
Know your destination and directions to it; and be alert should you get lost.
Always drive with your windows closed and doors locked.
Make a mental note of any Police Stations in the vicinity.
When stopping behind another vehicle, leave half a vehicle length in front of your vehicle to make an emergency escape if necessary.
When dropping off a passenger, make sure they are safely in their own vehicle before departing.
Avoid driving through high crime or unfamiliar areas.
Avoid driving late at night / early hours of the morning when the roads are quiet.
Drive in the center lane away from pedestrians where possible.
If possible, never drive alone.
NEVER, EVER pick up hitchhikers or strangers. (VERY IMPORTANT)
Never follow routine routes when driving; change on a regular basis.

Other situations:

If approached by a stranger while in your vehicle, drive off if possible or use your hooter to attract attention.
Lock your doors, close your windows and do not have bags or briefcases visible in the vehicle. Use the boot for this. Cell phone should also not be visible.
There are times and days that these items are visible in the vehicle. Try and open the window they might “smash & grab” about 3 cm, so the window can absorb the sudden impact. If you’ve left your stopping distance you may be able to escape.
Be constantly on the lookout for suspicious looking characters or vehicles and do not hesitate to report them to the SAPS.
Always be on the alert for potential danger, and be on the lookout for possible escape routes and safe refuge along the way.
When approaching a red traffic light at night, slow down so that you only reach it when it turns green.
Do not take anything from people standing at traffic lights or places where they gather (job seekers on gathering points). Perpetrators are usually standing among these people.
Make sure you are not followed. If you suspect you are being followed, drive to the nearest Police Station or any busy public area.
If any person or vehicle in a high-risk area arouses your suspicions, treat it as hostile and take appropriate action, e.g. when approaching a red traffic light, slow down, check for oncoming traffic and if clear, drive through the intersection. A fine will be preferable to an attack. Treat stop streets in the same way. Thereafter call for assistance if necessary. Always report these incidents to the SAPS. But remember, this is not an excuse to ignore the rules of the road. The onus will be on you to prove in a court of law that you had justifiable reason to act the way you did and this is only in the case of a real, life-threatening emergency.
Always have your identity document and driver’s license in your possession as well as a pen and notebook to take necessary notes.
If possible, avoid driving in the dark. Hijackers may stage a minor accident, for e.g. If your vehicle is bumped from behind and you do not feel comfortable with the individual involved in the situation, indicate he / she must follow you and drive to the nearest Police Station or any busy public area for help.
Never open your vehicle window or door for any stranger. If a suspicious person is near your unoccupied vehicle, do not approach the vehicle. Walk to the nearest public area and ask for assistance.
If you encounter obstacles in the road, e.g. rocks, tyres, do not get out of your vehicle to remove them. Reverse and drive away in the opposite direction.
Do not stop to eat or rest on deserted roads.
Do not leave your vehicle unattended at a filling station.
Cell phones should be carried on the body. Perpetrators will not allow you to remove your cell phone and valuables from the vehicle.

Information you should know:

When forced to drive with a hijacker, be observant without making direct eye contact and try to memorise as many details as possible.

Remember the direction from which they came and fled, as well as the time and place the incident happened.
Remember to make mental and physical notes immediately after the incident to ensure accurate and detailed information for the Police investigation.

One very important fact to remember when being hijacked:

Should the conclusion of the drama be by way of armed intervention, and escape is not possible, immediately drop to the ground, remain still and obey the orders of the leader.

If confronted:

Do not lose your temper, threaten or challenge the hijacker.
DO EXACTLY AS TOLD BY THE HIJACKERS!
Do not resist, especially if the hijacker has a weapon. Surrender your vehicle and move away. Try to put as much distance between yourself and the hijacker(s) as speedily as possible.
Do not reach for your purse or valuables. Leave everything in the vehicle.
Try to remain calm at all times and do not show signs of aggression.
Be compliant to all demands set by the perpetrator.
Do not make eye contact with the hijacker. He may perceive this behavior as a threat and retaliate aggressively.
Keep your hands still and visible to the hijacker, so as to give him assurance of your passive content.
Do not speak too fast (if you are able to talk) and do not make sudden movements.
Gather as much information as possible without posing a threat.
- How many people?
- How many firearms and description thereof?
- What were the perpetrators wearing (clothing)?
- To which direction did they drive off?
- Take note of the language they use (the accent).
First phone the SA Police Service on 08600 10111. They will dispatch the medical services if needed. Other emergency numbers you could phone are 112 ANY Network (Vodacom+MTN+Cell C) or 147 Vodacom ONLY.
Activate the vehicle tracking device if the vehicle is fitted with one.

Also View:

Hijack Prevention Guidelines

New South African legislation endorses 15 hours of drive time for truckers

This opinion piece refers to the Government Gazette Amendment Draft of 8 June 2012, 35413. I quote various commentaries including Messrs Campbell and Ramsden, who amongst many others, are more qualified than myself to make comments on Legislation includin

These essentially will apply to trucks but of course taxis are exempt. Our government and safety legislators can talk all day but when in my opinion it comes down to the realities, there always seems a loophole just when a strong policy decision is an opportunity begging to be taken.

Take the example of the driving rules from the European Union, in summary they are,
A. A break of 45 minutes after 4.5 hours of driving

B. Daily driving: A maximum of 9 hours, extendable to 10 no more than twice a week

C. Weekly driving: Maximum 56 hours

D. Two weekly driving: Maximum 90 hours in a two-week period.

The revised South African Draft which operators on our roads are expected to follow, is summarised as follows,
A. A maximum of 5 hours continuous driving time

B. A total maximum of 15 hours driving time in a period of 24 hours

C. A resting period of a minimum 15 minutes AND a minimum total of 30 minutes accumulated during the period of five hours and 30 minutes

D. A minimum continuous period of nine hours in a period of 24 hours (sic) (Note the contradiction of B).

Excuse my total surprise for the following reasons,
· Has South Africa ever convicted an operator for exceeding driving hours? I would really love to know.

· Or a driver?

· Have the drafters of this document actually considered and “done” what they propose, i.e. Mr. Minister have you ever driven 15 hours in a day, continuously?

· Isn’t it a consideration that in a country with long monotonous stretches of road to consider applying shorter rest period times for the following reasons,

a. Drivers should stop anyway say every two hours maximum to check the vehicle, tyres and load?

b. A break every two hours refreshes the legs and gets the circulation going?

In fact, excuse my cynicism, the first time I reviewed this Draft, I actually considered that an unethical operator had undue influence in the compilation of these rules. I cannot think or consider any ethical operator who comes close to operating these abusive hours. I think that is why in the main our best operators are exactly that. They would never consider allowing their drivers to work these excessive hours.

In summary, I am dumbfounded. In a country where we’re trying to make the transport sector, specifically long distance drivers a career prospect and considering the high levels of unemployment, surely this is the last thing a prospective entrant wants to see?

I am not saying, apply the EU rules, but this Draft is abusive.

What does the Department of Labour have to say on these hours?

The Draft goes on to further “accommodate” dual drivers, which is another surprise.

In summary, in my opinion, this Draft legislation does nothing less than entrench the abuse that exists with unethical operators.

Can anybody set the record straight?

I would be very happy to listen and take comfort if I was wrong. Until then I have to suggest this legislation is poor judgment but there is an underlying thought that just won’t go away––that someone drafting this has applied hours that accommodate abusive behaviour. I hope to be wrong and look forward to the record being set straight if I am.

The Department of Labour has announced new minimum wages for South Africans who drive as a service – which will rise 7.1% with effect from 1 September 2016.

According to the department, for those who work as drivers, the maximum permissible number of hours per week is 45. Broken down into a working week of five days, that represents a maximum of nine hours per day.

Workers can work overtime and agree to work six day weeks, depending on the agreement they have with their employer.

For long-haul truck drivers, working more than 70 hours per week is not uncommon which has led to complaints within the industry of driver fatigue, which leads to accidents.

Research conducted by the Interdisciplinary Accident Research Centre in South Africa, revealed that driver fatigue is one of the main causes of truck crashes, with 41% of accidents being fatigue related.

The most recent statistics show that there are more than 320,000 registered trucks – heavy load vehicles GVM > 3500kg in South Africa.

Drivers are paid in accordance to what part of South Africa they are based:

	Covers
Area 1	Areas around Gauteng, Durban, Port Elizabeth, Pretoria, and Cape Town
Area 2	Areas around Bloemfontein, East London, Kimberley, Klerksdorp, Pietermaritzburg, Somerset West, Stellenbosch and the Strand
Area 3	All other areas

The monthly revised pay is as follows:

Driver type	Area 1	Area 2	Area 3
Light motor vehicle	R3 458	R3 202	R2 899
Medium motor vehicle	R3 706	R3 424	R3 123
Heavy motor vehicle	R3 868	R3 569	R3 268

The good news is that South Africa has a shortage of skilled drivers, according to Barloworld Transport CEO Neil Henderson.

He told BusinessDay towards the end of 2015 that the country needs approximately 15,000 new professional truck drivers every year, but is not able to recruit that many.

Poor wages, and long hours are often cited as the reason to avoid taking up the job of a long-haul driver.

Road Freight Association (RFA) technical and operations manager Gavin Kelly said: “Generally drivers are hard to come by as the hours are long or ‘nonstandard’ due to shifts, transit times, and product specific handling requirements of the times that other processes, like border clearance, mine operations, traffic congestion or retailers, may have. Risks related to crime are higher and there is greater exposure to traffic incidents.”

Truck Driver Fatigue and Alertness on the Road

Introduction to Driver Alertn
ess and the Safety of Truck Drivers

South Africa has the 10^th largest road network in the world and truck drivers are transporting large quantities of cargo along long distances on these roads.

How do they manage to do this while remaining alert behind the steering wheel? How are transport operators assisting them to share the roads safely with other vulnerable road users?

We approached experts in logistics from Barloworld Transport to gain insights to the challenges and the pro-active steps taken to prevent fatigue related road crashes.

Regulation with regards to driving hours of truck drivers are covered not by the Rules of the Road but by the Collective Bargaining Council. What are the basics of the Agreement with the Collective Bargaining Council?

In terms of the Main Agreement and overall limitation of hours of work, an employer may not require or permit an employee to work more than 90 hours in any week, inclusive of ordinary hours of work, overtime hours and hours worked on a Sunday or public holiday.

Is this based on driving hours only or also in distances travelled?

This is based on ordinary hours of work and overall limitation of hours of work.

In the absence of formal legislation, does self-regulation in the trucking industry become more important?

Yes, definitely. Even with legislation from BCEA and NBCRFI it is important for us to self- regulate to ensure safety or our drivers and staff.

Is it fair to say that elements of logistics such as distances between load and offloading destinations as well as the “office hours” at these destinations have a significant impact on the time truck drivers have to spend on the road? What are the other factors? [Competition in the industry?]

Yes. Every contract is different and the management around drivers and trips is managed at a fleet/contract level. We run a vast operation from 24 hour operations, long distance brokered loads, refrigerated loads, dedicated contracts Monday to Friday, etc.

This means that each contract and each driver’s hours and work conditions needs to be monitored daily to ensure safe driving parameters in terms of the specific work requirements.

Are there specific routes / roads where driver fatigue in South Africa among truck drivers is a bigger risk?

Yes - definitely. The Cape Town route from JHB is always high risk due to the long straight roads and fatigue can play a major role there. With the more mundane, straight roads, the driver does not have to actively drive for long periods of time but is cruising at 80 km/h in their highest gear.

This then allows the driver to go into a state of non-active driving and these periods result in a greater likelihood of falling asleep.

Does crime and the risk of truck-jacking add further pressure on truck drivers to where they may be able to make a safe spot?

Yes, it does. But this can be countered by good Road Route Assessments and safe stopping areas planned for each of the fleets / companies routes.

We believe it is best to not leave this to the discretion of the driver but to have planned and approved stops along each route to enable to the driver to be able to plan his route to these stops.

Do we have enough quality truck stops in South Africa to accommodate truck drivers and provide safe and comfortable stop - overs? What would be your requirements for a safe truck stop?
There are goods stops, although there is always room for improvement. Security (for vehicle and driver) as theft of wheels, etc. is a huge problem at most truck stops, eating facilities, access to major routes - have to be close to major roads, paving for damage to trucks, food available, 3G signal good. Food and beverages closely monitored on site for alcohol. Etc

What does Barloworld Transport focus on to reduce the risk of truck driver fatigue? Are their pro-active strategies in place? [Education and Awareness etc.]

PDLP in house covers fatigue, signs of, medication, what to do, how etc. Professional Driver Learnership Programme. Ongoing training programme, starting with a 2-week induction course and then refresher every year.
DriveSmart: This system uses the real time telematics data from trucks to monitor weekly the driving hours of a driver and produces online reports for fleet operators. In this we look at: total hours driven in the week, driving in high risk hours, weekly breaks off the vehicle, Hours per day, stops every 4 hours. These reports are generated and drivers spoken to weekly on their driving patterns
Mixtelematixs: daily reports on drive time are received from Compass (service provider of Mix to BWT). These are managed by Fleet Operators
Violations of daily drive times are reported on our in-house SHEQ system Isometrix - violation are logged, investigated, actions allocated and then closed out. From this we can see trends and pick up high risk contracts etc.
DriveCam: these videos often highlight fatigued drivers, and can be used to proactively speak with drivers and change patterns and create awareness
Safe & Sound Campaign including tool box talks etc.: campaign for all staff around safety issues including fatigue, preparing for trips, awareness of signs, weather patterns and fatigue (i.e. hot, cold etc.)
Mobile Eye: we are currently testing 8 Mobile Eye advance warning systems in our vehicles. These react in the truck by a buzzer and record the instances when a driver moves over a line without indicating and/or gets too close to the vehicle in front of them. The aim being to actively alert the driver in the cab if he has gotten drowsy and has not reacted in time and then the record of these instances can be used to speak to the driver about post trip and to trend improvement in performance. To date the stats how a marked decrease in this type of behaviour over time when the drivers have been engaged in post trip debriefs on this behaviour.
Road Route Analysis: route analysis done on all routes to assess risks along the way and safe stop areas. These are including in pre-trip briefs with drivers.
On-road shift change: for many of our 24 hour routes, we have on-road shift changes where drivers are taken to vehicles to ensure that driving hours are not violated.
Fleet Operator / Control room awareness of fatigue and management awareness: Fleet operators and control room operators are aware of fatigue dangers and how to deal with and ensure that drivers that phone in when they are feeling fatigued are afforded the correct advice in terms of nearest stop / what to do and the importance of dealing with these occurrences correctly.

Are there specific guidelines for operators?

No - these are self-regulated.

Do you focus on specific times of night that travel might be riskier?

Yes - through our DriveSmart programme we monitor High risk driving hours which are the hours from 10 pm to 4 am. For all fleets that do not run 24 hours, we have a no driving standard from 11:00 pm to 4:00 am. Obviously some fleets are even more strict in terms of no after dark driving for our mega loads and fuel and chemical loads.

Some are driven by client requirements, but most are driven by our risk assessments of individual contracts. For trips that have to drive through this period due to operational requirements from time to time, operations will put systems in place at the 24-hour control rooms to phone drivers to chat and check on their status.
Are operators encouraged to take part in the health tests / trucking wellness programmes by the Bargaining Council (https://arrivealive.co.za/Trucking-Wellness-and-HIV-Treatment)

We do have our own in-house clinics, annual medicals and wellness programmes which our drivers are actively encouraged to participate in.

What is the importance of technology in combating fatigue among truck drivers?

It is important but to date there is no hugely successful system that has worked, or been adopted in the SA Market. There are many tools such as safety belts that measure their heart beat to caps/glasses/dashboard instruments that will measure the drivers eyes and how many times he blinks and pupil movement to alert the driver if he deviates from his norm suggesting fatigue.

But these are costly and the effectiveness in the SA market has not yet been proven. Together with the problem of maintaining and using them correctly. We find that no matter how many systems are in place, they are often only as good as the post trip de-briefs and meaningful interaction with drivers are.

You can have many tools, but you need to actively manage them and engage with drivers openly and with care to ensure the best results in terms of driving performance, including fatigue awareness.

Is technology such as fleet management and telematics tools used to detect driver fatigue and dangerous driving or in crash investigation?

Yes, we do as above, DriveSmart DriveCam and Mobile Eye are all directly relating to using telematics to measure and then coach drivers on behaviour and fatigue related patterns of driving and high risk times etc. These are then also used extensively in the post collision / crash investigation.

Is in-cab technology available to detect driver tiredness and raise an alarm?

Yes. There are a lot of in-cab fatigue related technology. As above. We are currently testing Mobile Eye because it raises the alarm in the cab but also triggers an event which we can manage later with the driver and trend etc.

Any aspects not covered by the above questions which might be important to share as important to combat Truck driver fatigue?

One of the bigger challenges is ensuring that your driver arrives for work fit to drive and not already fatigued. We can monitor and manage what they do when working for us, however to manage what they do in their own time is more difficult. Does a driver have 4 days off and then drive 12 hours to arrive at work and get onto a company vehicle?

Awareness can be created around this by educational material and training interventions together with shift start questionnaires, but they all rely on the driver actively believing in and understanding the importance of being responsible during time off, especially close to return to work, planning leave/off time and ensuring they return to work from long or short breaks fit to work.

There are some systems e.g. Pre-shift assessments which can be done, but again this relies on accurate implementation and execution of these, together with good planning to ensure that relief drivers are available if any drivers fail their “fit for work” test. This increases contract costs for operators to have drivers on standby and/or reduced customer service if no standby drivers.