It has been a deadly weekend on the province’s roads as 24 people, including 4 children, lost their lives since Friday in three separate crashes.

In the most recent crash on Saturday evening, 13 people died at the Hexrivier Pass near De Doorns after a bus driver allegedly lost control and collided with a truck, before crashing into the rock wall of the pass.

The bus was travelling towards Cape Town on the N1 carrying 60 passengers.

There were also multiple injuries, including seven patients who were hospitalised in a critical condition.

On Friday afternoon, six people died in a multi-vehicle crash on the R43 near Villierdsorp.

The six victims were all in one vehicle, which includes four children. Two other patients were transported to hospital in a serious condition, while a third person sustained minor injuries.

Late on Friday night, a sedan, a bakkie and a bus were involved in another serious crash on the N1 between Prince Albert and Laingsburg.

Five people lost their lives, one person was seriously injured, and one person sustained minor injuries. None of the 39 passengers on the bus were hurt.

The causes of all three the crashes are under investigation.

The MEC for Mobility Ricardo Mackenzie has extended bis condolences to all those affected.

It has been a tragic weekend on our roads and my heart goes out to those who are dealing with the trauma of losing their loved ones. I implore everyone travelling on our roads to take care, be safe, and obey the law. As we gear up for Easter, please make sure you prepare properly for long-distance travel. Check that your vehicle is roadworthy, get enough rest, buckle up, don’t drink and drive, and don’t speed. Finally, I want to thank all the women and men who make sacrifices and work tirelessly to keep people safe in our province.

Premier Alan Winde also extended his sincere condolences to the loved ones of the deceased.

“My thoughts are with the victims of this terrible tragedy,” said the Premier.

He echoed the Minister’s appeal for all road users to behave responsibly throughout the year, especially during holiday periods when the roads are busier than usual.

ALSO READ: Good driving behaviour crucial to road safety this festive season – AA