Oscar Shabalala, Business Development Head & Stakeholders Relations at CTU

Every day, South Africa’s roads are shared by cars, buses, trucks and motorcycles, each with their own size, speed, and stopping limits. Yet, many accidents occur when the unique dynamics of larger vehicles are misunderstood. This Transport Month, Clarendon Transport Underwriting Managers (CTU) is reminding everyone that road safety isn’t only about signs and speed limits, it’s a shared responsibility that starts with people.

Oscar Shabalala, Business Development Head & Stakeholders Relations at CTU, says the human element is often overlooked in discussions about road safety. We insure some of the country’s biggest transport fleets, and what we see repeatedly is that crashes are rarely caused by a single fault. They’re caused by small moments of human error, misjudging a braking distance, cutting in too closely, or driving distracted. These moments have serious consequences for everyone involved.

Understanding how trucks and buses move

Unlike cars, heavy vehicles can’t stop or swerve quickly. Their weight means longer braking distances, while their size limits visibility, there are large blind spots on all sides, especially directly behind and alongside the vehicle. Buses also need more space to turn and accelerate.

“When a motorist cuts in front of a bus or truck to make a quick turn, they’re often not realising that the driver simply cannot stop in time,” explains Shabalala. “These vehicles can weigh up to 20 times more than a car. Even at low speeds, that difference in mass changes everything.”

Four tips for safer driving around buses and trucks

To help build safer habits on the road, Shabalala shares these practical tips:

1. Keep your distance – Allow extra space when following or overtaking. Trucks and buses need longer to stop.
2. Stay visible – If you can’t see the driver’s mirrors, they can’t see you. Avoid driving in blind spots.
3. Don’t cut in – Never pull sharply in front of a heavy vehicle. Wait until you can see its full front grille in your rear-view mirror before changing lanes.
4. Be patient – These vehicles accelerate slowly and take wide turns. Rushing them only increases risk.

Shared roads, shared responsibility

Shabalala says small acts of awareness and courtesy can save lives. “Whether you’re behind the wheel of a sedan, a minibus, or a 10-ton bus, you’re part of the same ecosystem. Every responsible decision, slowing down, giving space and staying alert helps everyone get home safely.”

He adds that safer driving habits also protect livelihoods by reducing claims, preventing downtime, and stabilising insurance costs for the entire transport sector.

As Transport Month reminds us of the importance of mobility and connection, CTU calls on all South Africans to play their part in keeping the country’s roads safe. “The road is a shared space,” says Shabalala. “If we treat it and each other with respect, we all win.