Johannesburg Highways: Road Status, Safety & Travel Tips

Remember the snowstorm that shut down the N3 and left drivers stranded? Events like that show how quickly a normal trip can turn risky. This page gives clear, practical advice for anyone driving Johannesburg’s major routes — what to watch for, how to prepare, and what to do if things go wrong.

Which roads matter most here? Think M1 and M2 through the city, the N1 north-south artery, the N3 toward Durban, the N12 and the R21 to OR Tambo. Each road has its own peak times, common bottlenecks and maintenance zones. If you commute daily, map the choke points you hit and keep at least one reliable alternative route in mind.

Quick checks before you hit the road

Start with weather and traffic: check Waze or Google Maps for live delays and incidents. Look at SANRAL or Johannesburg Roads Agency updates for planned closures. Fuel up before long trips and top up coolant/washer fluid when weather is bad. Check tyre pressure and tread — that matters more than you think, especially in wet or icy patches. Pack a small kit: phone charger, torch, warm layer, water, snacks and a basic first-aid kit. If you use toll routes, make sure your e-tag or payment method is active to avoid fines and delays.

Time your trip smarter. Avoid peak inbound hours (7–9am) and outbound peaks (4–7pm) where possible. Short detours can save you an hour stuck on the M1 or in the Buccleuch area. For early morning or late-night drives, plan fuel stops and check service station opening times.

What to do if you get stuck or spot a hazard

If your car breaks down, pull well off the road and switch on hazards. Stay inside the vehicle if the roadside is unsafe and wait for help. Call emergency services from your phone — 112 on mobile works across networks — and contact roadside assistance like AA if you have cover. Share your exact location (use coordinates from your map app) with anyone helping you.

See a collision or dangerous road condition? Report it on Waze or to SANRAL/JRA so other drivers get warned. Don’t try to walk on high-speed highways; if you must exit, move away from traffic and stay visible. Use warning triangles if you have them, placed at a safe distance behind the vehicle once it’s safe to do so.

Want ongoing updates? Follow SANRAL and the Johannesburg Roads Agency on Twitter for real-time notices, and keep Waze or Google Maps open while you drive. Daily Africa Global News also posts local travel alerts — bookmark our traffic tag to get quick summaries when storms, protests or roadworks affect major routes.

Small prep makes a big difference. With a few checks and the right apps, you’ll cut delays and stay safer on Johannesburg highways.