Latest news with #Ranft
The Herald
6 days ago
- Climate
- The Herald
Black ice is the cause of many road accidents every winter
'You should particularly watch out for black ice on bridges and overpasses [they freeze first], shaded or low-lying areas, early morning or evening drives and after light rain followed by freezing temperatures. 'You might notice the road looks wet but there's no spray from other tyres — that's often a clue. If there's frost on your windscreen, chances are the road could also be icy.' Ranft advised motorists who suspect black ice on the road to slow down and drive with caution, avoid sudden steering or hard braking, leave a greater following distance, keep their headlights on for better visibility and never use cruise control in icy conditions. 'Your tyres and brakes are your first line of defence. If your tyres are worn or underinflated or your brake system isn't functioning optimally, you're much more vulnerable. Safety doesn't come from luck — it comes from preparation.' Winter safety checks typically include inspecting tyre tread and pressure, checking brake pads, discs and the ABS system, assessing the condition of the battery, wiper blades and fluids and ensuring all lights are functioning properly. 'These small checks can make a big difference. Black ice doesn't give second chances. Let's stay safe out there,' said Ranft. TimesLIVE
TimesLIVE
6 days ago
- Automotive
- TimesLIVE
Black ice is the cause of many road accidents every winter
The Motor Industry Workshop Association (Miwa) says dozens of accidents on South African roads are linked to black ice, a hazard that often catches even experienced drivers off guard. Miwa chair Dewald Ranft said on Monday black ice is one of the most dangerous and misunderstood hazards motorists face in winter. 'Many drivers assume black ice is a problem limited to colder countries, but it's more common in South Africa than we realise, especially in high-altitude areas and inland regions such as the KwaZulu-Natal Midlands, Eastern Cape highlands and Free State farmlands. If you're travelling early in the morning or after a cold front it's a real risk.' Despite its name, black ice isn't black. 'It's a thin, transparent sheet of ice that blends in with the road, often making the surface appear wet. It reduces tyre friction by up to 70% and even experienced drivers may not realise they're on it until they lose control.' You might notice the road looks wet but there's no spray from other tyres - that's often a clue. 'You should particularly watch out for black ice on bridges and overpasses [they freeze first], shaded or low-lying areas, early morning or evening drives and after light rain followed by freezing temperatures. 'You might notice the road looks wet but there's no spray from other tyres — that's often a clue. If there's frost on your windscreen, chances are the road could also be icy.' Ranft advised motorists who suspect black ice on the road to slow down and drive with caution, avoid sudden steering or hard braking, leave a greater following distance, keep their headlights on for better visibility and never use cruise control in icy conditions. 'Your tyres and brakes are your first line of defence. If your tyres are worn or underinflated or your brake system isn't functioning optimally, you're much more vulnerable. Safety doesn't come from luck — it comes from preparation.' Winter safety checks typically include inspecting tyre tread and pressure, checking brake pads, discs and the ABS system, assessing the condition of the battery, wiper blades and fluids and ensuring all lights are functioning properly. 'These small checks can make a big difference. Black ice doesn't give second chances. Let's stay safe out there,' said Ranft.
The Citizen
29-04-2025
- Automotive
- The Citizen
Check your vehicle after the Easter holidays
With many South Africans returning from their Easter holidays, the Motor Industry Workshop Association (MIWA), a proud association of the Retail Motor Industry Organisation (RMI), is reminding motorists to prioritise post-trip vehicle checks and ongoing maintenance. Dewald Ranft, National Chairperson of MIWA, says long-distance travel can take its toll on a vehicle, especially if it was already due for a service or experienced an increased load during the holiday. Unroadworthy cars can be a major source of accidents. The Department of Transport noted that since their Easter Safety campaign began on March 20, 2 200 vehicles had been removed from the road. 'Now is the perfect time to have your vehicle checked by an MIWA-accredited workshop to ensure everything is in good working order and to avoid unnecessary breakdowns,' he advises. Ranft highlights key checks which should be carried out after a holiday trip and stresses the importance of inspecting tyres for wear and correct pressure, checking oil and other fluid levels (such as brake, coolant, and transmission), and assessing the condition of the battery. 'It's also vital not to ignore any unusual noises or dashboard warning lights. These are often early signs of a potential problem,' he adds. He recommends including a seasonal undercarriage clean, especially for those who drove in coastal or wet conditions, to remove salt and grime that can accelerate rust. Ranft emphasises the importance of only using MIWA-accredited workshops. 'Our members are held to the highest standards of quality and professionalism, ensuring that consumers receive trustworthy service every time,' he says. Ranft suggests motorists sign up for service and licence renewal reminders to stay on top of regular maintenance. 'Simple SMS or email reminders from your workshop help prevent lapses that could compromise vehicle safety,' he notes. Lastly, Ranft urges motorists not to pack away their road safety kit just yet. 'A well-stocked emergency kit including jumper cables, a tow rope, a torch, first-aid kit, water, and a phone charger is essential. Drivers should also know how to perform basic tasks like changing a tyre or jump-starting a car.' 'Good preparation and maintenance are your best defences against future problems,' he concludes. At Caxton, we employ humans to generate daily fresh news, not AI intervention. Happy reading!
The Citizen
29-04-2025
- Automotive
- The Citizen
Post Easter trip vehicle checks are vital
With many South Africans returning from their Easter holidays, the Motor Industry Workshop Association (MIWA), a proud association of the Retail Motor Industry Organisation (RMI), is reminding motorists to prioritise post-trip vehicle checks and ongoing maintenance. Dewald Ranft, National Chairperson of MIWA, says long-distance travel can take its toll on a vehicle, especially if it was already due for a service or experienced an increased load during the holiday. Unroadworthy cars can be a major source of accidents. The Department of Transport noted that since their Easter Safety campaign began on March 20, 2 200 vehicles had been removed from the road. 'Now is the perfect time to have your vehicle checked by an MIWA-accredited workshop to ensure everything is in good working order and to avoid unnecessary breakdowns,' he advises. ALSO CHECK: Dressing the parents: A fashion guide for the big day Ranft highlights key checks which should be carried out after a holiday trip and stresses the importance of inspecting tyres for wear and correct pressure, checking oil and other fluid levels (such as brake, coolant, and transmission), and assessing the condition of the battery. 'It's also vital not to ignore any unusual noises or dashboard warning lights. These are often early signs of a potential problem,' he adds. He recommends including a seasonal undercarriage clean, especially for those who drove in coastal or wet conditions, to remove salt and grime that can accelerate rust. Ranft emphasises the importance of only using MIWA-accredited workshops. 'Our members are held to the highest standards of quality and professionalism, ensuring that consumers receive trustworthy service every time,' he says. ALSO CHECK: SA Safari Rally 2024: South Africa's motorsport history in the making Ranft suggests motorists sign up for service and licence renewal reminders to stay on top of regular maintenance. 'Simple SMS or email reminders from your workshop help prevent lapses that could compromise vehicle safety,' he notes. Lastly, Ranft urges motorists not to pack away their road safety kit just yet. 'A well-stocked emergency kit including jumper cables, a tow rope, a torch, first-aid kit, water, and a phone charger is essential. Drivers should also know how to perform basic tasks like changing a tyre or jump-starting a car.' 'Good preparation and maintenance are your best defences against future problems,' he concludes. At Caxton, we employ humans to generate daily fresh news, not AI intervention. Happy reading!
