27 Jul 2026

Dilapidated roads network in the North West District, is contributing to increasing road crashes and collision as drivers pay attention to potholes to avoid vehicles damage and in the process forgetting other road users. 

Speaking in an interview, Maun Police Station, acting Station Commander, Assistant Superintendent, Moutlwatse Ikobeng said one of the most common mistakes drivers make was attempting to dodge potholes without first ensuring it was safe to do so.

"A driver should never swerve into another lane simply to avoid a pothole, instead, the safest option is to slow down or come to a complete stop, allow other vehicles to pass and only proceed when it is safe," he said.

Mr Ikobeng's caution followed a recent collision along Maun-Sehithwa section of the A3, where two trucks collided after one driver allegedly swerved into the opposite lane, while attempting to avoid a pothole.

Two passengers; aged four and 72 years respectively, sustained injuries and were currently hospitalised at Letsholathebe Memorial Hospital in Maun. He said a 25-year-old driver of one of the trucks was expected to face a charge of careless driving.

While potholes present a genuine danger, Asp Ikobeng said panic often created an even greater risk than the damaged road itself.

He observed that many serious crashes occur not because motorists struck potholes, but because they lose control while trying to avoid potholes, drifting into the path of oncoming vehicles.

Asp Ikobeng further expressed concern over the continued practice of travelling in open trucks and other vehicles not designed to carry passengers.

"In the event of a collision, passengers travelling in the back of open vehicles are highly vulnerable to getting thrown out of the vehicle or sustaining severe injuries, therefore, people should avoid using such transport unless it is absolutely necessary," he said.

Mr Ikobeng also urged motorists to reduce speed, maintain safe following distance and remain vigilant, particularly during winter when visibility may be reduced by early morning fog and evening darkness.

He emphasised that while road conditions may sometimes be beyond a driver's control, motorists’ respond to those conditions often determined whether they arrive safely or become another road traffic statistic. ENDS